Wolseley Group recorded a 30% growth in trading profits for its third quarter but strong revenue growth in the US, and positive momentum in Scandinavia and France were offset by weaker trends in the UK and Canada.
Revenue fell by 4% in the UK in the quarter, although like-for-life revenue was 1% ahead, the difference largely a result of the disposal of Brandon Hire in September.
Build Center continued to improve its trading performance, benefiting from a lower cost base and a focus on higher margins.
The company said that in most of its trading regions newbuild housing remained subdued but the RMI sector held up well in most markets.
