Woolworths is to open 10 big-box home improvement stores over the next 12 months in Victoria in a bid to expand its DIY store presence. Nine of the stores will open in the Greater Melbourne area. The chain has become involved in the hardware retailing business through a joint venture with US home improvement retailer Lowe’s. Their store roll-out programme is in direct competition with the dominant DIY retailer Bunnings, part of the Coles Group.