Business growth at B&Q has helped Kingfisher plc to a 29% rise in first-half operating profits.
Britons have bought more timber, paint and power tools, and analysts say television makeover programmes and dedicated magazines have encouraged people to redecorate their homes at a time of low interest rates and a buoyant housing market.
Kingfisher’s pre-tax profits for the six months ending August 2 went up to £335m from £259m during the corresponding period last year. Store openings boosted sales 15% to £3.94bn.
