Despite fewer trading days and one-off factors during the first months of 2014 (until February 22), depot sales still grew 7.3% compared to a year ago.
Howden’s annual group turnover is now nearing £1bn, with revenue of £956.5m recorded for 2013. Thirty new depots were opened during the year and capital expenditure of £24.7m completed in its two manufacturing sites at Runcorn and Howden.
The company has been rolling out "virtual showrooms" at its depots which allow kitchen designs to be shown on large HD television screens or projected on to walls.
To support its small builder customer base, Howdens has also introduced a range of cabinets pre-fitted with accessories.
