Underlying like-for-like hit 0.7% in Q1 against a strong prior year comparator, for Kingfisher Group – owner of B&Q, Screwfix, Brico Dépôt and Castorama.
Trade sales grew a sizeable +17% (excluding Screwfix), with Group trade sales penetration at 31%. Ecommerce sales increased +14% (excluding Screwfix), with group ecommerce penetration at 31%. Marketplace GMV grew +39% to £163 million.
Five stores opened, including the first standalone TradePoint.
According to the group, the Q1 performance meant it was on track to deliver full year guidance.
Outgoing Chief Executive Officer Thierry Garnier said: "We delivered a resilient start to the year, executing well and gaining market share against a soft market backdrop. Sales including marketplace grew +0.8%, with core categories proving resilient - even as a late start to spring impacted footfall and seasonal demand. E-commerce and trade sales both delivered double digit growth, underlining the momentum in our key growth drivers. While mindful of the consumer environment, we remain absolutely focused on delivering our strategy, disciplined gross margin and cost management, and consistent shareholder returns. We are confident in achieving our full-year guidance and are well positioned to capitalise on the attractive long-term growth opportunities across our markets."
