Wickes has reported an increase in sales for the third quarter, fuelled by customers completing summer projects.
- Retail sales for Wickes grew by 4.7% to £312.1 million, contributing to a total sales rise of 2.1% to £391.3 million.
- The increase was driven by customers addressing outdoor projects delayed due to adverse weather conditions earlier in the year.
- While DIY sales are in moderate decline, TradePro sales saw a significant rise of 16% over the quarter.
- Design and Installation sales experienced a drop, although there are signs of stabilisation in recent weeks.
In the third quarter, Wickes witnessed a 2.1% rise in total sales, reaching £391.3 million. The home improvement retailer saw its retail sales grow by 4.7% to £312.1 million, underscoring a customer’s drive to complete postponed summer projects impacted by earlier weather disruptions.
This growth is predominantly attributed to customers taking advantage of improved weather to catch up on outdoor projects that were delayed by the wet conditions during the spring and early summer months. Such pent-up demand has evidently facilitated a robust performance in retail sales.
Despite the overall rise in sales, Wickes reported a ‘moderate decline’ in DIY sales as consumers showed a tendency to focus on smaller projects. However, the success of its TradePro offer, which saw an exceptional 16% increase, indicates a shift in purchasing behaviour towards professional tradespeople.
Conversely, the Design and Installation sector faced a challenging period with a 7.1% decrease to £79.2 million. Nevertheless, the company noted that although ordered sales were lower than the previous year, they have been ‘more stable’ in recent weeks, suggesting potential recovery or adjustment to current market conditions.
Wickes’ CEO, David Wood, expressed confidence in the company’s strategy, highlighting the ‘excellent value and service-led offer’ that continues to attract home improvement customers. Wood emphasised that Wickes is ‘on track for the full year and well positioned for 2025 and beyond,’ reflecting a positive outlook despite the variances in segment performances.
Wickes remains optimistic about its prospects, leveraging strong retail and TradePro sales while navigating challenges in the Design and Installation sector.
