Wickes grows with retail division and in trade business

British DIY chain Wickes has reported a strong start to the year. In the first quarter (ending 26 April 2025) of its 2025/2026 financial year, it generated turnover of GBP 533.1 mio (EUR 633.6 mio), up 6.9 per cent, or 5.5 per cent on a like-for-like basis.

The retail division was responsible for the high growth rate. It grew by 9.6 per cent (9.2 per cent on a like-for-like basis) to GBP 396.7 mio (EUR 471.5 mio). Within this division, the professional business under the Trade Pro sales brand performed particularly well, achieving a 13 per cent increase in turnover compared with the same period last year.

By contrast, sales in the Design & Installation division declined. They fell by 0.4 per cent to GBP 136.4 mio (EUR 162.1 mio), or 4.2 per cent on a like-for-like basis.

The company is currently converting four former stores of its competitor Homebase. These are among the five to seven new locations that Wickes plans to open by 2025.