Home improvement group Kingfisher has reported a rise in first quarter sales, supported by strong seasonal and big ticket demand at its UK banner B&Q.
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For the three months ending 30 April 2025, total sales increased by 1.6% to £3.3 billion, with like-for-like sales up 1.8%. At B&Q, like-for-like sales jumped 7.9%, boosted by growth in seasonal ranges, core products and high-value categories. Marketplace participation also rose, with 45% of B&Q's marketplace now including international vendors.
The company completed the conversion of eight former Homebase stores into B&Q locations, six of which have already opened, with the remaining two to launch by the end of May.
Screwfix also delivered solid results, with like-for-like sales rising 2.9%, supported by extended product ranges for trade customers and enhancements to its click & collect and same-day delivery services.
In contrast, like-for-like sales in France fell by 3.2% across Kingfisher's Castorama and Brico Dépôt chains, though the group noted sequential improvement despite "challenging market conditions." Sales in Poland were affected by short-term geopolitical volatility.
Kingfisher chief executive Thierry Garnier said the group had "made a good start to the year" with "market share gains in all key regions" and continued progress on strategic objectives. He added: "Our UK banners performed particularly well," and reiterated full-year guidance for adjusted pre-tax profit in the range of £480 million to £540 million.
Garnier noted that while "consumer sentiment remains mixed," Kingfisher remains focused on strategic growth, cost discipline and shareholder returns.
Source: www.theretailbulletin.com