Kitchen, joinery and bedroom furniture supplier Howdens has reported a growth in half year sales and profit.
According to its latest trading update, first half 2025 sales rose 3.2% to £997.6m from £966.3m in 2024. Pre-tax profit increased 4.4% to £117.2m from £112.3m.
During the period, Howdens opened around 25 depots in the UK and reformatted 60 existing sites. The Republic of Ireland is establishing itself as a strong competitor in its categories and this year Howdens will open another five depots, bringing the total to 18 by the end of the year.
Howdens launched more new kitchen ranges and is planning at least 23 this year, aimed at making more styles available at more price points.
“Sales in the first half were ahead of the prior year and ahead of peak autumn trading we will have 60 worktop decors available,” Howdens said. “In other categories, we are enhancing our range with both third-party branded products and our own in-house brands. In doors, we are introducing more colours and bolder styles at every price point.
“Our own-label flooring brand, Oake & Gray, launched in 2023, now accounts for a substantial share of category sales. This year’s additions include innovative water-resistant laminates and refreshed entry-level decors.
“Feedback on our latest own-label ironmongery brand, Fuller and Forge, has been very positive. Featuring a wide variety of door furniture designs, finishes, and styles, it significantly strengthens our presence in a category where we were previously under-represented. We are also expanding our successful bedroom ranges to suit more styles and budgets.
Looking ahead, Howdens added that performance since the start of the second half has been in line with its expectations.
Andrew Livingston, Chief Executive Officer, commented: “Howdens performed well in the first half, gaining further market share. The ongoing investment in our strategic initiatives is strengthening our competitive position, and our current trading performance gives us confidence in achieving our full year plans.
“We are well prepared for the second half, which includes our seasonally important peak trading period. This includes Howdens’ best-ever line-up for kitchens, available for 2025 in more colours, styles, and finishes to suit all budgets.
“While market conditions remain challenging, our trade customers are highly skilled at winning work in such times backed by Howdens’ well-incentivised depot teams, unrivalled product quality and industry leading stock availability.”
