Homebase up again

British DIY chain Homebase increased its sales between March and the end of September by six per cent. Like-for-like sales by the store chain, part of the GUS retail group, were also up by four per cent. The company quoted kitchens, bathrooms and tiling as segments that registered particularly strong returns. As of 30 September Homebase had 283 stores, including five that opened in the first half-year. 88 of its stores have a mezzanine floor.