Wickes delivered a strong volume-led performance for the first half of FY26/27. The home and DIY retailer recorded revenue of £865.3 million, an increase of 2.1% year on year, with adjusted profit before tax of £27.6 million, an increase of 1.1% year on year. Statutory profit before tax was £24.6 million.
Its TradePro sales grew by 5%, with increasing volume growth in Retail driving revenue +0.8% despite 2.4% deflation, and a strong order book in Design & Installation driving 5.7% revenue growth.
Chief executive David Wood said: “Our value-led retail proposition continues to appeal to both DIY and Trade customers, with TradePro achieving record levels of active members. Design & Installation delivered sales remain in growth, with particularly strong sales of Wickes Bespoke Bathrooms and Lifestyle Kitchens, demonstrating the appeal of our broader offer.
“Our growth momentum through the first half has continued building into Q3, with a significant step-up to mid-single-digit LFL revenue growth in Retail”.
Investment in digital driving momentum
Wood highlighted the company’s investment in digital services as a key factor in Wickes’ growth. Digital innovations include upgrading its click-and-collect service to 15 minutes, and launching Wickes Rapid, which offers delivery of up to 800kg within three hours.
“Looking ahead, our digital investments are improving the customer experience and operational efficiencies and we remain confident in our strategy, continuing to invest for growth, including our ambition to reach 300 stores, to drive sustainable long-term value for shareholders,” Wood said.
The analysts’ view
Commenting on Wickes Group Plc’s half year financial results, Julie Palmer, managing partner at financial and real estate advisory group BTG, highlighted that Wickes’ “low prices, convenient store locations and wide range of products” have helped get customers through the door. She added that “a summer of hot weather and sporting events has delivered strong sales” and suggested that the slowing house market could work in Wickes’ favour as consumers invest in their homes instead of moving.
“The home improvement giant will be hoping to continue building on the strong foundation it has made in the first half of its financial year and continue capturing all corners of the market as it has been successful at,” she added. “This means remaining the DIY destination of choice alongside capturing the demand for more significant improvements ahead of Christmas through its Design and Installation service and booming base of professional customers through its TradePro loyalty scheme.”
Wickes’ latest results suggest its focus on convenience is resonating with customers. While rivals continue to talk up AI and future technologies, Wickes is investing in practical digital improvements that make home improvement projects easier to plan, order and fulfil. With TradePro membership at record levels, Design & Installation returning to growth, and management reporting stronger momentum into Q3, the retailer appears to be proving that sometimes the most effective digital strategy is simply removing friction from the customer journey.
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