Build It has overtaken Pupkewitz Megabuild to become the most affordable hardware retailer in May 2025.
After months in second place, Build It cut its basket price by 3.3% to N$7,154.64, moving ahead of Pupkewitz, whose prices remained unchanged at N$7,314.41.
This shift wasn’t due to Pupkewitz raising prices, but rather holding them steady while Build It made downward adjustments.
BUCO also reduced its prices, dropping its basket by 4.6% to N$7,903.78. This helped it move up from last place to third. In contrast, Ark Trading raised prices significantly—by 17.2%—pushing its basket to N$8,907.68 and placing it at the bottom of the affordability rankings.
The changes show how quickly pricing shifts can affect rankings. Build It’s price cuts have made it the go-to option for budget-conscious buyers, especially contractors and SMEs buying in bulk.
Pupkewitz, while no longer the cheapest, remains consistent and predictable—an advantage for those who value stable pricing.
Ark’s large price hike puts it at a disadvantage, especially for buyers needing cost control.
BUCO’s drop in prices is a positive sign, but it will need to show more consistency to be a serious contender for the top spot.
Ranking Summary – May 2025
• Cheapest: Build It – N$7,154.64
• Most expensive: Ark Trading – N$8,907.68
• Biggest price drop: BUCO – down N$378.21
• Biggest increase: Ark Trading – up N$1,305.44
• Most stable: Pupkewitz Megabuild (under N$7,400 all year)
• Most volatile: Ark Trading
• Lowest average in 2025: Pupkewitz Megabuild – N$7,191.16
• Highest average in 2025: Ark Trading – N$8,201.13
Notable price increases – Ark Trading
• Brickforce 150MM: +18.7%
• Door Hardboard Interior: +18.7%
• Ceiling Board: +18.2%
• Copper Tube: +18.2%
• Galvanised Roofing: +17.5%
Notable price drops
• Door Frame Steel (Build It): -30.7%
• Brickforce 75MM (BUCO): -23.2%
• Brickforce 150MM (BUCO): -22.7%
• Lockset 2 Lever (Build It): -16%
• Aluminium Window (BUCO): -15.6%
Consumer takeaway
Build It has steadily cut prices since February, positioning itself as the best value option. Pupkewitz remains reliable and may still appeal to those who prefer consistent pricing. BUCO’s latest move is promising, but it needs to maintain this direction. Ark Trading’s sharp increase is a warning for cost-sensitive buyers—its current pricing can affect project budgets, particularly for small businesses.
In a market where construction costs matter more than ever, these shifts could influence purchasing decisions. Strategic buyers may benefit from comparing retailers or mixing purchases to save costs.
Survey background
The Brief conducts a monthly price survey tracking 18 commonly purchased hardware items at Ark Trading, BUCO, Build It, and Pupkewitz Megabuild. Prices include VAT and reflect trends in supply, demand, and retailer strategy.
Disclaimer
This survey is for information purposes only. Prices may vary due to supplier changes, stock issues, or timing. Contact retailers directly for the latest information.
