Building and DIY group Grafton has reported first half turnover of more than €1.4 billion and said earnings continue to be in line with market expectations.
The firm said this morning the favourable environment in Ireland continues to compensate for the softer conditions in the United Kingdom.
It said there was particularly good growth in both Chadwicks and Heiton Buckley.
Davies and Garvey's, the two Irish merchanting businesses acquired in December 2005 by Grafton, showed positive growth in their first full six months trading under its ownership.
The group experienced a slower start to the retail season in its Irish DIY businesses but recent trading has been stronger. New shops opened in Castlebar, Co Mayo, and Navan, Co Meath, during the first half of the year and are performing in line with expectations.
Group turnover in the United Kingdom was over €800 million for the six months.