Financial Highlights
2019
The information presented relates to the 52 weeks to 28 December 2019 and the 52 weeks to 29 December 2018, unless otherwise stated.
Overview of performance in 2019
We are pleased to report that 2019 saw further progress for Howdens. Sales increased by 4.8% compared to 2018, with an improvement in gross margin to 62.3%, from 61.7% in 2018.
Our sales growth, improvement in gross margin and focus on operating costs resulted in profit before tax increasing to £260.7m, from £238.5m in the prior year.
We have continued to invest where necessary to support our plans for the business, including:
- In the next phase of our distribution strategy focused on Raunds in Northamptonshire
- Opening a total of 44 new depots including five in Northern Ireland and 5 new depots in France
- Introducing new product ranges, including 12 new kitchen ranges and 25 new Lamona appliances
- Significantly improved our digital services, both to our trade customers and to the end consumer to reinforce the Howdens model
£1.6bn
Revenue (2018: £1.5bn)
62.3%
Gross margin (2018: 61.7%)
£261m
Profit before tax (2018: £239m)
£260m
Operating profit (2018: £240m)
£267m
Net cash at the end of the year
£126m
Returned to shareholders
2019 Annual report
Download a copy of the 2019 Annual report
Financial Highlights
Chairman’s statement
Chief Executive’s statement
Download Strategic Report
Shareholder Information
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HOWDENS Making space more valuable
Business model and Strategy
Find out more about our business model and strategy, the markets in which we operate and our strategic approach to protect our unique business model and ensure that the business continues to grow.
Our depots
As a familiar sight across towns and cities in the UK and Europe, our depots are always within easy reach, so a trade professional never has far to travel to find their nearest Howdens. Get to know more about how each one operates.
Sustainability
Our sustainable behaviour is at the heart of our business and enables us to reduce some of our risks. We take great pride in ensuring that our business positively impacts the world around us and the people within it.
In the community
We are passionate about supporting the local communities we operate in, which is why our depots and support staff actively seek ways to give something back. Whether it is running half marathons or sponsoring local Scout groups, discover the many ways we help good causes.
Our products
With more than 80 kitchen styles, an exclusive appliance brand, Lamona, and thousands of products across joinery and hardware, learn why our builders have come to trust the range and quality of the products we offer.
People & Careers
The Sunday Times named Howdens as one of the top 25 big companies to work for. Discover why Howdens is a great place to work, how we develop our people and reward them, whilst building a culture with an entrepreneurial spirit.
Financial Results
Download copies of the latest financial results for Howdens both past and present including the associated presentations and Interim Management Statements released between results announcements.
Governance
Howdens is a responsible business which was founded on the tenet that the Company should be worthwhile for all concerned, with a commitment to the people within its reach and the wider world. Here we provide the links to the framework that informs our decisions and outcomes.