Kingfisher Q1 sales down in soft markets; Holds guidance

26th May 2026 07:02

(Sharecast News) - Shares in Kingfisher jumped on Tuesday as the DIY chain owner said it was still on track to meet full-year guidance despite a 0.9% fall in first-quarter sales due to softer markets in the UK and France.

Total sales for the three months to April 30 at the B&Q and Brico Depot owner came in at £3bn. Underlying sales were down 0.7%.

Kingfisher said it expects FY 26/27 adjusted pre-tax earnings of £565m-£625m and free cash flow of £450m-£510m.

The company, which also operates in Poland and Spain, said a late start to spring had impacted footfall and seasonal demand, although online and trade sales both delivered double-digit growth.

Screwfix UK like-for-like sales rose 4.1%. However B&Q fell 4.1%, reflecting a tough comparative number with last year.

Reporting by Frank Prenesti for Sharecast.com