Kingfisher sales boosted by Screwfix

Kingfisher has grown its UK third quarter like for like sales by 1.5% following a strong performance at Screwfix.

In the three months to October 31^st, like for like sales declined by 1.9% at B&Q UK & Ireland but climbed by 10.2% at Screwfix. Kingfisher said the increase at Screwfix was driven by its digital capability, new and extended specialist ranges and new outlets.

Like for like sales across the group were down 0.5% reflecting continued weak sales in France. Like for like sales at its French business, which includes the Castorama and Brico Dépôt chains, fell by 4.1%. However, like for like sales in Poland were up 6% in the period as the company benefited from a “supportive” market.

Kingfisher chief executive, Véronique Laury said: "Q3 has followed a similar course to the first half. We have seen strong growth at Screwfix and Poland offset by continued weak sales in France, alongside some business disruption from our One Kingfisher plan, principally reflecting product availability and clearance. We continue to act on the causes of this disruption, which we are confident will ease.”