Kingfisher Tightens the Reins on Profit Forecasting
Yep, the UK’s biggest DIY boss, Kingfisher—home to B&Q and Screwfix—has decided to pull the reins on its next‑quarter shots. More uncertainty, higher employer National Insurance (NI) contributions, and the ever‑turbulent economy have all sunk the mood, and the company’s financial outlook has dipped a bit.
What’s the Bottom Line?
- Third‑quarter figures leaned—a sharper hint that the market’s not as friendly as it once was.
- Full‑year profit guidance now sits between £510 million and £540 million, down from earlier expectations.
- Shares have trailed 11% (down to 263.4p), partly because October sales stumbled.
- Higher NI will hit Kingfisher with an extra £31 million in costs for 2025/2026.
CEO Thierry Garnier’s Take
“Overall trading last quarter held its own,” says Garnier. “The boom in August and September? Totally wiped out when October felt the chill of consumer anxiety—both in the UK and France, thanks to the latest budget moves.”
He added, “We’re putting all our energy into the stuff we can actually control—pushing for more market share, tightening price, cost, and cash management.”
What’s Going Forward?
Kingfisher isn’t just watching the sky; they’ve got a game plan. By locking in smarter retail strategies and honing operational efficiencies, they’re hoping to surf the wave of uncertainty with a bit less wobble.
In short: the big DIY names are tightening grips, trimming numbers, and staying focused on what they can do—because the next decade of giving the masses a hammer and a hopeful outlook is still in the works.
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