Kingfisher (KGF.L) said it remains 'on track' to deliver strong sales growth, despite tough conditions in the second quarter.

Its UK & Ireland operations saw sales drop 5.5 per cent on a like-for-like basis, with B&Q reporting a 6.7 per cent like-for-like drop in sales.

Sales of outdoor seasonal products were down by more than 20 per cent, as a following a strong first quarter performance, poor weather and the collapse of Focus DIY, which saw clearance activity.

However, in its French operations saw 3.7 per cent like-for-like increase in sales during the second quarter with growth from its Castorama and Brico Dépôt chains.

Ian Cheshire, group chief executive of Kingfisher, said, 'The UK market remains challenging compounded by disruption in the second quarter from heavy stock clearance activity by a major competitor closing down.'

Cheshire said the clearance activity by Focus DIY was 'largely complete',  with B&Q set to take advantage of the former Focus sites it had acquired.

He added, 'Gross margins are ahead in all our major markets so far this quarter, supported by more direct sourcing and the gradual introduction of common ranges.

'These are testing times for retailers, particularly in the UK, but also an opportunity for strong businesses such as ours to strengthen their position.

'We expect to emerge from this year in excellent shape and well prepared to start delivering the next phase of our growth plans.'

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