Wickes’ retail division returned to growth in its second quarter as rising TradePro demand helped group revenue climb 2.3 per cent to £483m.
The home improvement retailer recorded a 0.9% increase in group like-for-like sales during the 13 weeks to 27 June, with growth driven by higher customer numbers and volumes.
Retail revenue increased 1.8 per cent to £366m following a 0.4 per cent decline in the first quarter. Like-for-like sales edged up 0.6 per cent, despite a deflationary pricing environment, while DIY sales remained broadly flat.
Wickes said it continued to gain market share, with retail like-for-like sales up 8.5 per cent on a two-year basis.
TradePro was the standout performer, with sales climbing six per cent year on year. Active membership of the trade loyalty scheme rose nine per cent to 671,000.
Digitally led click-and-collect and home delivery sales advanced seven per cent as the retailer continued to invest in faster and more convenient fulfilment.
Revenue from Wickes’ design and installation ranges increased 3.8 per cent to £117m, with like-for-like sales up 1.8 per cent. Delivered sales have now grown for five consecutive quarters, supported by demand for Lifestyle Kitchens and Bespoke Bathrooms.
However, the retailer said customers were taking longer to consider larger purchases, weighing on orders for its Bespoke Kitchen ranges. Although the number of design and installation projects increased, the value of ordered sales was slightly lower than last year.
Across the first half, Wickes reported group revenue of £865m, up 2.1 per cent, while like-for-like sales rose 0.6 per cent.
Chief executive David Wood said: “This has been another period of revenue growth, driven once again by volumes and an increase in the number of Wickes customers.”
Wickes refitted or refreshed eight stores during the half and closed one branch. It plans to open four to five new stores during 2026 and upgrade between 15 and 20 existing locations.
The retailer ended the half with net cash of £152m after completing £10m of share buybacks and a further £10m of purchases for its employee benefit trust.
Despite uncertainty around consumer spending, Wickes reportedly expects modest market growth during the remainder of the year and remains comfortable with analysts’ forecasts for 2026 adjusted pre-tax profit.
Consensus currently stands at £55.4m, within a range of £52.8m to £58m.
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