Wickes has reported strong full-year 2025 results, achieving market-leading growth, higher profits, and a stronger balance sheet. The hardware retailer also announced an accelerated investment programme to expand to 300 stores nationwide.
Group revenue increased 5.9% to £1.64bn (2024: £1.54bn), driven by strong volume growth in both Retail and Design & Installation (D&I). Retail sales rose 6.5% to £1.21bn, supported by a 9% increase in TradePro sales and mid-single digit DIY growth. D&I revenue grew 4.4% to £427.3m after five consecutive quarters of ordered sales growth. Like-for-like sales rose 4.9% for the year.
Profitability improved, with adjusted profit before tax up 14.4% to £49.9m and statutory profit before tax more than doubling to £48.7m. Wickes ended the year with net cash of £91.7m after returning £44.8m to shareholders through dividends and share buybacks. An additional £10m buyback programme is planned for 2026.
“Strong progress”
Chief Executive David Wood stated the business delivered “another year of strong progress,” with “volume-driven growth across all three areas of the business, as the strength of our proposition continues to resonate with customers.” He noted record market share gains in timber, tiling and flooring, and paint, as well as continued growth in TradePro membership, which reached 643,000 active members. The D&I proposition also benefited from simplified customer journeys and enhanced in-store design capabilities.
Wickes is increasing investment in digital capability, store refits, and new store openings. In 2025, five new stores opened and 11 stores were refitted or refreshed. The company plans to accelerate expansion to 300 stores nationwide, creating over 2,000 jobs. Smaller-format stores, typically 15,000 to 20,000 sq ft, are performing well and will enhance national coverage.
Digital central to future growth
Digital remains a key focus, with fulfilment improvements supporting the upgraded 15-minute Click & Collect service and the launch of Wickes Rapid, which offers delivery of up to 800kg within three hours. Additional investment in design software, a unified commerce platform, and enhanced order management will continue through 2026 and 2027.
Looking ahead, early 2026 trading remains resilient despite weather-related softness in outdoor categories. Wickes states it is well positioned for the year, supported by a balanced business model and ongoing investment, and remains “comfortable with consensus expectations” for FY2026.
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