Turnover in Ireland down

The retail business turnover of the Irish Grafton Group suffered a fall of around 12.5 per cent year-on-year in the first six months. The main reason given for this was poor garden sales resulting from the adverse weather in April and June. Trade was also harmed through reduced consumer spending because of the pressure on disposable income. The group’s operating performance is said to be in line with expectations. However, it does not include rationalisation costs. The Atlantic Home Care chain went into administration in June. Woodie’s DIY is another chain that also belongs to the group.