Ireland, Netherlands help drive Grafton revenues

International builders merchanting and DIY group Grafton said like-for-like group revenue for the four months to end October rose 5.5% as its Irish and Netherlands business performed well.

Total revenue increased over the same period by 10.2%, Grafton said in a trading update.

Group revenue for the 10 months to end October increased by 9.3% to £2.5bn and by 8.9% in constant currency. Like-for-like Group revenue increased by 4.4%.

"Trading in the UK has been consistent with our expectations at the time of the interim results,” said chief executive Gavin Slark.

“The group has benefited from its exposure to multiple geographic markets and saw its businesses in Ireland and the Netherlands perform well.

“Following a good first half performance, overall trading in the last four months has underpinned our confidence that we will deliver our expectations for the full year."