Robust trading at kitchen manufacturer as it targets further expansion

Howden Joinery Group, a specialist trade kitchen and joinery supplier with depots across Yorkshire, has reported a positive start to the year in a trading update for the 16 weeks to 14 April 2024.

The business’s UK depot revenue in the period was 5.4% ahead of the prior year and 4% ahead on a same depot basis.

At the start of the new financial year, Howden says it has implemented modest price increases across all its geographies.

In 2024 the company plans to open around 30 more depots in the UK, around five to 10 new international depots, and also aims to refurbish around 85 older UK depots. The latest product introductions for 2024 include nine new kitchen ranges.

Andrew Livingston, chief executive, said: “We have made an encouraging start to the year with trading in line with our expectations. We are also continuing to make good progress in implementing our strategic initiatives which drive profitable growth.

“We are on track with the outlook for 2024, while mindful of the second half weighting of sales from our autumn peak trading period.”