In this Omni Talk Retail interview, recorded live from the Global DIY Summit 2026 in Amsterdam, Chris Walton talks with Ryan Baker, Chief Operating Officer of Bunnings Group, about customer trust, omnichannel retail, and how one of the world's most successful home improvement retailers continues to evolve in a rapidly changing market.
Ryan shares his 25-year journey with Bunnings, from starting on the shop floor to leading merchandise, marketing, supply chain, retail media, and customer strategy across the business. He explains how Bunnings aligns these functions around a single goal: creating a better experience for customers.
The conversation explores why Bunnings believes value extends beyond price, why home improvement retail is really about projects rather than products, and how content and inspiration help customers build confidence to take on DIY projects. Ryan also discusses Bunnings' services marketplace, faster fulfillment options, and how AI and long-term investment are helping the company adapt to changing customer expectations while maintaining the trust it has built over decades.
Key Topics Covered:
• Ryan Baker's 25-year journey from the shop floor to COO of Bunnings
• Why Bunnings organizes merchandising, marketing, and supply chain around the customer
• The role of trust in building Australia's most trusted retail brand
• Why value means more than just low prices
• Expanding into new categories including pet care, cleaning, and automotive
• Why home improvement retail is really about projects, not products
• The importance of content, inspiration, and DIY education
• How Bunnings' services marketplace connects homeowners with trade professionals
• Same-day delivery, Uber Eats, and the future of last-mile fulfillment
• Reaching younger consumers, renters, and first-time DIY customers
• How Bunnings is using AI to improve customer experiences and team productivity
• Lessons from Bunnings' omnichannel transformation journey
Thank you to Vusion for supporting Omni Talk Retail's live coverage from the Global DIY Summit 2026 in Amsterdam.