Sales rise at Marshalls

The headline revenue for the 10 months ended October 31 2010 was 290m, up from the 277m in the same period last year.

Group like for like sales were 5 per cent ahead of the prior year with sales to the public sector and commercial end market rising 7 per cent. Sales to the domestic end market increased by 3 per cent.

In a statement, the company said: "The achievement of these additional sales reflects the

success of continuing investment in merchandising and distribution initiatives for

customers and installers. Despite increased fuel costs and a slightly lower margin product

mix we expect trading to be in line with expectations."

Commenting on the trading outlook, the company said: "The short term outlook for the remainder of this year shows good order books and a

positive order flow as our marketing and sales initiatives deliver encouraging results.

"Our public sector and commercial lead indicator shows a mildly positive outlook for future

hard landscaping demand. There remains an uncertainty over the impact of the recent

Comprehensive Spending Review and how this will affect consumer and business

confidence.

"However, the flexibility that we have built into the operating model means that we are well placed to respond to changing market conditions and to benefit when demand improves. Selective investment in new products and new markets remains a key priority

and we continue to build on the strong Marshalls brand and its market leading position."