Wolseley plc, which owns the Builder Center and Timber Center chains, has produced “record” full year results for the sixth consecutive year.

Group operating profit for the year ending July 31 was up 12% to £464m and pre-tax profit up 15% to £437m, from sales of £8bn, an 11% increase.

David Hunter, managing director of Timber Center, said the chain is growing rapidly and this year made a greater contribution to the group’s overall sales and profits.

Timber Center now has 38 outlets, boosted recently by the acquisition of UPM-Kymmene’s Brook Manson business, which comprises 11 depots.

&#8220Timber Center is growing rapidly and this year made a greater contribution to the group’s overall sales and profits.”

David Hunter, managing director of Timber Center.

Mr Hunter hinted of further new branch openings in the coming year and of improvements in the services offered by stores. He said timber sales were a “very important” part of Wolseley’s business.

Group chief executive Charles Banks said: “We’ve made good progress with the integration of our acquisitions which provide the platform for future growth opportunities. Our increased scale, market strength and diverse product range enables us to look forward with confidence against a background of challenging market conditions.”

He described the UK market as “favourable”.