Howden reaps lockdown benefits as homeowners splash cash on kitchen refits

Howden said sales growth was driven by price increases and volume growth

During lockdown, many consumers decided to redo their kitchens as homeowners invested the money they might have spent on a holiday or a new car on improving their homes.

The UK’s largest kitchen supplier said revenue jumped 47 per cent in the 16 weeks to April 17. Last year's figures were hit by Covid-19 lockdown measures.

Howden said sales growth was driven by price increases and volume growth.

Compared with 2019, Howden Joinery UK increased revenue by 13 per cent overall.

On a local currency basis, depot revenue in Continental Europe increased by 108 per cent.

The firm said it is on track with its plans for the year.

Howden Joinery trades from 751 depots in the UK and 30 depots in Continental Europe. Three new UK depots have opened so far this year and seven older UK depots have

been refurbished.

The group plans to open around 35 new depots in the UK and 11 in France during 2021, in addition to refurbishing around 40 older UK depots.

The group will release its 2021 half year report on July 22.