Grafton's expansion into the British merchanting market helped the company post pre tax interim profits of €54.3 million today, an increase of 30 per cent on the same period last year.
Britain now represents 76 per cent of group sales and 72 per cent of operating profit.
In Ireland where Grafton's operations include the Woodie's DIY store chain, turnover was up 20 per cent to €221.3 million.
Commenting on the results, Mr Michael Chadwick, Grafton's chairman said the success of the British operation fully endorsed the company's growth strategy and added that the company has a healthy pipeline of bolt-on acquisitions.
Amid this favourable backdrop Mr Chadwick said he remained confident for the group's prospects for the remainder of the year.
