Bunnings UK posts decline in sales
Bunnings saw its UK sales fall by 13.5% to £211 million in its third quarter.
Like-for like sales in the period were down 15.4%.
The company said improved trading results in the early part of the quarter were offset by the impact of wintry weather in March. This had a significant effect on trading, particularly in the seasonal gardening and outdoor living categories.
Bunnings group managing director Michael Schneider said the company had made satisfactory progress in its work to improve performance at both its Homebase and Bunnings stores in the period. This included work to improve store standards, inventory controls, range management and promotional and digital initiatives.
Schneider said: “Retail execution standards lifted in Homebase in preparation for spring and stores are well-positioned for the arrival of the season. Refinement of the Bunnings format is ongoing with recent conversions reflecting updated range plans.”
During the quarter, the company opened eight pilot stores. At the end of the period, Bunnings UK was operating 227 Homebase stores and 23 Bunnings stores.
