Wickes to create more than 2,000 jobs under aims to expand to 300 stores

Dan Coatsworth, head of markets at AJ Bell, said: “To beat profit forecasts when the going is good is one thing, to do it when market conditions are more volatile is another, which suggests Wickes has sharpened its proposition.

“Shareholders will be encouraged to see accelerated investment in the business – with management clearly not resting on their laurels. Whether you’re selling scarves or shelving – the basics of retail involve getting the right products in the right places at the right time and at the right price points to encourage customers to buy. Wickes seems to be winning.”