International News - Manhattan first for Home Depot in urban move

The world's biggest DIY retailer, US-based Home Depot, has secured its first location in Manhattan as part of its push to open stores in urban areas.

Chief finance officer Carol Tome said the shop was part of the retailer's strategy to fill 'voids' in its market coverage.

She said such areas were not well served by either Home Depot or its competitors at present. 'They are under-served by anyone and that's what we're going after,' said Tome.

The multi-level outlet will open in 2004. The first urban store opened in Brooklyn earlier this year and several others have followed.