The Wickes transformation plan and good growth at both Toolstation and Tile Giant contributed to continued above-market growth in parent Travis Perkins' (TP) consumer division in the first half.
In the six months to June 30 2015 revenue in the division increased 8.6% to £693m, and like-for-like sales growth of 6.5%. Adjusted operating profit surged by 13.9% to £41m.
TP said the businesses in the consumer division continued to invest in value in order to maintain market-leading prices and drive growth in market share.
Wickes undertook a significant number of range reviews during the period, with more focused promotions and clearance investment, incurring costs of over £4m in the process, and the reviews will continue.
Three Wickes stores were re-modelled, with the trial stores including a new trade counter, which improves stock density and availability, as well as the layout of the store in heavyside and decorating categories.
The new layout changes have delivered better product adjacencies, more focused seasonal and promotional offers and a more inviting kitchen and bathroom showroom.
The Wickes online offer was further improved, with the launch of a one-hour click-and-collect service. Online sales now make up over 8% of Wickes sales, with half of the growth in online sales coming through click and collect.
The growth of the Toolstation business continued with a strong revenue performance, driven by organic growth in sales through existing stores and 18 new branches. Toolstation also saw the introduction of a one-hour click and collect.
Tile Giant started 2015 well, with good like-for-like growth, exceeding growth in the tile market and gaining market share.
Overall, group revenue at TP increased by 7.8% to £2,943m, and like-for-like sales grew by 5.7%. Adjusted operating profits increased by 5.7% to £185m. Excluding property profits, adjusted operating profit increased by 9.0%.