B&Q owner sees no improvements in French market

Home improvements retailer Kingfisher today reported a rise in sales for the third quarter but warned that market conditions remain tough, particularly in France.

The B&Q owner said total sales for the 13 weeks to 2 November grew 8 per cent to £2.9 billion, with like-for-like sales in the UK and Ireland rising 2 per cent to £1.1bn, driven by a strong performance at its 300-strong Screwfix chain.

In France, its largest market where it trades as Castorama and Brico Depot, Kingfisher said like-for-like sales were flat at £1.2bn.

Chief executive Ian Cheshire said: “Whilst we have delivered sales growth in each of our geographies, our markets remain challenging, especially in France where consumer confidence is still weak and with no obvious signs of an imminent improvement.

“We remain ready to capitalise on any improvement in conditions or opportunities as they arise.”