The merchanting giant, reporting its interim financial results for the 10 months ended October 31, said the UK division’s turnover was up 3.6% during the period, with average daily-like-for-like turnover increasing 2% in September and October compared with flat business for July and August.
Irish merchanting turnover fared worse, with sales declining by 8.7%.
Total group turnover grew to €1.83bn (2011: €1.73bn), while operating profits were also up despite difficult markets.
“The group is on course to report full year operating profits (before restructuring and amortisation) at the higher end of market expectations,” it said.
Grafton also runs Jackson Building Centres, Selco and importer L&G Forest Products in the UK, while the Irish business includes Heiton Buckley, Chadwicks and Ireland’s leading DIY chain Woodie’s DIY.
