Leading the way

OBI’s target is to be the leading DIY retailer setting the pace for the whole trade as an innovator. Wherever we are present, we define the DIY market and strive for market leadership. We set standards regarding assortment, store formats and customers’ shopping experience. OBI is one of the leading European DIY brands offering a wide range of home improvement and gardening products. Currently, the company operates in 13 central and eastern european countries more than 580 stores, thereof more than 340 in Germany. Today the Group  has more than 43.100 employees.

Privately owned by the Tengelmann Group OBI was founded in 1970. As the undisputed market leader in the German DIY retail industry, OBI is the driving force which propels the entire trade. Since 1993 the company has used its powerful position within the home market to press ahead with its expansion internationally.

Since the opening of the first OBI store in 1970 (Hamburg, Germany), the sales areas of the OBI stores have increased from 870 sqm to large-surface “orange boxes” with more than 10,000 sqm. The total store sales area now amounts to more than 3,8 million sqm.
OBI stores offer a broad and comprehensive product range, which, on average, includes 40-60.000 articles per store. The competent product range covers gardening, building material and elements, tools, sanitary and interior decoration. Targeting primarily private individuals - i.e., families, do-it-yourselfers and semi-professionals - customers attracted from within an extensive catchment area will find all they need to improve their homes.

As the market leader in the German DIY retail industry, OBI is the driving force which propels the entire trade. Since 1993 the company has used its powerful position within the national market to press ahead with its expansion internationally. OBI's market share rises continuously, improving its pole position in the market permanently. Indisputable market leadership in sales and market share, product and service innovation, and in the realization of concepts and store formats in many international markets is the target of OBI. Building up a long-sustainable business model and growth will be the driving force of OBI's future success.