Travis Perkins dip in sales blamed on 'uncertainty'

A building materials supplier has reported falling sales as it warns of economic uncertainty in the industry.

Northampton-based Travis Perkins said like-for-like revenue fell by 1.3% in the three months to 30 September.

In the year to the end of September, the group's like-for-like revenue dropped by 0.9%.

The group said the industry remained subdued, especially in the new build residential sector, "as macroeconomic uncertainty persists".

It added it that was prioritising more profitable trade and reducing credit risk in the current environment, to help protect profits "despite the volume headwinds".

The London-listed company's shares dropped nearly 3% at one stage on Thursday after the update, before settling around 1.5% lower later.

The group's brand Toolstation UK grew with a 3.6% increase in like-for-like revenue in the three months to 30 September, in line with expectations and ahead of further store openings in 2027.

Travis Perkins chief executive Gavin Slark said: "In challenging market conditions we remain focused on what we can control.

"Our ongoing cost discipline and trading approach are protecting profitability whilst we continue to identify and implement further operational efficiencies.

"We look forward to providing more detail on our strategy and operational priorities at our preliminary results in March 2027."

The group has five businesses – Travis Perkins general merchant, tools provider Toolstation, civil engineering, drainage and heavy building materials provider Keyline, heating and ventilation specialist BSS - and drylining and insulation distributor CCF.

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