DIY and home improvement retailer Wickes has posted sales broadly in line with last year, with growth in its Core sales but a dip in Do It For Me (DIFM).

Core sales grew 1.1% in Q3, with the retailer reporting growth in volume for the first time since Q2 2021.

It highlighted double digit growth in TradePro sales, with DIY sales “moderately” down on the previous year.

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Whereas DIFM sales were down 4.4% in Q3, which Wickes partially attributes to a normalised order book, compared to the first half of the year.

In addition, the company states it has experienced some delays to delivered sales due to a change in software, reporting an impact on Q4 delivered sales which will fall into FY2024.

Wickes also reports there was pressure on conversion rates, particularly during September, as customers were taking longer to commit to big ticket purchases.

The retailer has continued to invest in the business during Q3 with a new store opening in Chelmsford and one completed refit.

It also reports two stores have opened in Widnes and Torquay, with four further refits planned and remains confident about rolling out new stores in 2024.

Chief executive of Wickes David Wood commented: “Once again thanks to our amazing colleagues we have delivered a solid performance in a challenging market as we continue to deliver against our strategic growth drivers.

“In our Core business we have gained further market share and achieved a return to volume growth.

“We have fulfilled strong demand from our Trade customers and been encouraged by greater stability in DIY.

“As we continue to rollout our programme of store openings and refits, I am confident that we have the right product offer and the most attractive locations – enabling us to deliver value for customers and shareholders.