Travis Perkins has reported sales growth of 6.3% for its retail division following investment in new ranges and initiatives to attract trade customers.
In its interim results for the six months to June 30, 2007 released earlier today chief executive Geoff Cooper said the performance of the division, which includes Wickes, was the result of the refreshing addition of new ranges in-store and continued investment in its trade customer base.

Overall, like-for-like sales grew 6.3%; core sales grew 9.3% while gross margins fell. Highlights were seen in outdoor projects.

The retail division also saw a slow down in big ticket items as customer spend reflected the increasing caution from successive interest rate rises.

Geoff Cooper says he now anticipates slower market growth in the second half of the year.