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YEAR IN BRIEF

In 2006/07, 13 new warehouse stores, three smaller format stores and one trade distribution centre were opened. At year-end there were 155 Bunnings Warehouse stores and 65 smaller Bunnings stores operating across Australia and New Zealand; and a further three HouseWorks stores in Western Australia.

During the year, 31 stores were upgraded or refreshed as part of the ongoing store network refurbishment programme which brings current building and merchandising standards into the older parts of the network. Other store development work to support enhancements and expansions to the range of products and services offered was also completed. In addition, the rebranding of the Benchmark store network in New Zealand was substantially advanced.

The establishment of a network of stand-alone trade distribution sites in Australia to service high-volume builder customers continued and, at year-end, 11 were in operation. These sites relieve the store network of high volume delivered-to-site business, freeing up space and allowing store teams to focus on pick-up trade business. Eight frame and truss manufacturing sites are also in operation in Australia.

Good progress was made throughout the year on strategies to deliver greater efficiencies and more effective operations within the business, including the successful implementation of phase one of new inventory, warehouse management and business systems. Other highlights included continued positive trends in shrinkage levels, inventory disciplines, supply chain enhancements and
in-store process improvements.

Steady progress continues in developing the new HouseWorks retail concept. WA Salvage, a bargain hardware and variety retail chain that operated in Western Australia, was closed during the year.