Travis Perkins plc has revealed a 7% drop in like-for-like sales in its consumer division, largely comprising Wickes, during the third quarter to September 30 2012.
The group posted total LfLs down 3.5%, with overall sales falling 2.4%. Management said this was "as expected" and said the like-for-like figures had "held up relatively well compared to quarter two." Disruption due to the weather and Olympics was blamed for the dip in sales, which the group said recovered noticeably towards the end of the period.

For the year-to-date total sales in the consumer division were up 12.9%, including Toolstation which was consolidated from January 3, 2012. Like-for-likes, meanwhile were down 6.2%. However, on a proforma basis including Toolstation's 2011 figures, the total consumer sales would reduce to a gain of 3.2% and like-for-likes would improve to -3.7%.

The group pointed out its debt levels have continued to fall since the half year, and its focus remains on working capital reductions and expenditure control in order to achieve a debt target of £450m by the end of the year.

Chief executive Geoff Cooper said: "Trading improved in September after the uneven and fragile trading conditions experienced so far this year, and our continuing tight management of costs and efficiency gains from self help projects mean we remain on target to meet market expectations."