Topps Tiles to shutter 23 UK stores as slow demand hits market (updated)
01/04/2026 07:48
Adds details from trading update and background throughout April 1 (Reuters) - British tile retailer Topps Tiles TPT.L said on Wednesday that it would close 23 underperforming stores as part of cost‑saving measures, aimed at boosting medium‑term profitability amid weakening market demand. A slowdown in the home-improvement and do-it-yourself (DIY) market has weighed on demand for discretionary renovation products, pressuring sales volumes and revenue growth at retailers including Topps Tiles. Britain's largest tile retailer also reported a 0.1% fall in first‑half revenue to 142.7 million pounds ($189.31 million). While its initiatives are expected to weigh on overall revenue, the company is prioritising measures to support profitability. "In light of subdued consumer sentiment and geopolitical uncertainty as well as the cumulative impact of cost inflation, the management team is implementing a targeted programme of self-help measures weighted towards the second half," Chief Executive Officer Alex Jensen said. The group, which operates roughly 300 stores across the UK, added that its specialist tile retailer business CTD remains on track to return to profit in the current financial year. ($1 = 0.7538 pounds) (Reporting by Rishab Shaju and Raechel Thankam Job in Bengaluru; Editing by Sherry Jacob-Phillips) ((RaechelThankam.Job@thomsonreuters.com;))