Calderdale firm Marshalls sees an improvement in trading after revenue struggles during the pandemic

Marshalls plc has issued a trading update and further information on its response to the Covid-19 outbreak, ahead of its half-year results.

In a statement, Marshalls said: “Our priority continues to be the safety and wellbeing of our employees, suppliers and customers and we aim to ensure that our health and safety practices are in line with recommended guidelines.

“Revenue for the six months ended June 30, 2020 was £210.5m which represents a decrease of 25 per cent year on year.

“Trading in June was better than expected with revenue 2 per cent ahead of June 2019, with the benefit of two extra trading days.”

The statement added: “On a like-for-like basis the June average daily revenue was down 7 per cent compared to the prior year period.

“This is a significant improvement as April was 66 per cent down on a like-for-like basis.

“This improved level of trading has continued in the early part of July.

“All continuing manufacturing sites are now fully operational and have been reorganised to accommodate appropriate social distancing requirements without any loss of productivity.”

Sales to the domestic end market have been strong, with the survey of domestic installers at the end of June 2020 showing a healthy order book of 12.4 weeks, the statement added.

Marshalls added: “We continue to take all appropriate steps to support the long-term interests of the business, its colleagues and other stakeholders.

“As previously announced, the group entered into consultation with colleagues as part of a series of restructuring proposals, covering all parts of the business and including selective site closures.

“The restructuring programme is now substantially complete. The flexibility and improved efficiency of our plants means that capacity has not been materially reduced.”