Wickes is the UK’s second largest DIY specialist with sales of £1.56bn for the year ending December 31 2022 (FY2022).
It has been listed on the London Stock Exchange since April 2021 after being demerged from former owner Travis Perkins and can now operate autonomously to execute its distinct strategy and allocate capital to growth opportunities.
A digitally-led, service-enabled business, Wickes trades through around 230 retail stores, its online site and its TradePro and DIY mobile apps, with two thirds of its sales originating online one way or another.
The recent focus for tech investment has been uncoupling Wickes’ systems from those of its former parent company and supporting the rapid increase in online sales as a result of the pandemic.
Wickes has been ahead of the curve in terms of multichannel, having taken the view at an early stage that a smaller store format, supported by an efficient supply chain and strong online offer, was the way forward. It has also prioritised investment in fulfilment.
Innovation rating: 2.5
