Business at B&Q was “stronger than anticipated” in the 10 weeks to July 11, according to parent group Kingfisher plc.
In a trading update, Kingsfisher group chief executive Ian Cheshire said B&Q continued to capitalise on the growing trend for home and garden DIY, low cost room makeovers and competitor withdrawal in bigger ticket categories.
B&Q’s total sales during the period grew 1.5% (0.7% on a like-for-like basis), with seasonal categories down around 2% following strong seasonal sales in the first quarter (+30%) and tougher year-on-year comparative figures.
Sales of core DIY and decorative products remained “relatively resilient” (broadly flat). Gross margin percentage continued to benefit from lower mark down activity in seasonal ranges, as well as supply chain efficiencies.
Another Kingfisher business, Screwfix saw sales decline 6% in a “much more challenging trade market”.
