Wickes nets strong growth boosted by energy-saving buys

Home and DIY retailer Wickes’ like-for-like sales grew 5.2% for the 13 weeks to December 31, while group sales increased by 11.5%. 

The retailer said that although sales of DIY had remained below the previous year, they stabilised towards the end of the fourth quarter as shoppers looked to buy energy-saving products to save them money during the cost-of-living crisis. 

Its “do-it-for-me” services delivered a 34.5% sales uplift on a one-year basis, against an Omicron-affected comparative, and it increased its number of installer teams from 2,600 in March 2022 to 3,000 at the end of the year. 

Wickes said local trade sales also performed strongly and it grew its TradePro customer base 18% year on year, ending 2022 with 746,000 digital members.

Wickes chief executive David Wood said: “Wickes traded well during the period, with group sales up 11.5%, underpinned by our relentless focus on value, availability and service.

“With the increased cost of living and colder winter months we have seen more customers turning to Wickes for help to reduce their energy usage and bills.

“We’re providing market-leading value on products, from loft insulation through to draught excluders, and customers are visiting our online Sustainable House Guide for great hints and tips on how to reduce energy and cut back on costs.

“Wickes continues to demonstrate the strength of its uniquely balanced business model. We remain focused on our growth levers to ensure that we continue to outperform the market.”

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