Franchise Brands, a multi-brand franchise business, has reported a steady recovery in trading in Q3 from the previous quarter’s lockdown-impacted performance.
At the height of the lockdown in April and May, system sales at its Metro Rod and Metro Plumb units were down by nearly 30% against the comparative period in 2019. But from June onwards, system sales have grown by an average of 8% per month as the economy has emerged from the lockdown. By September, system sales for the month were 9% higher than in the comparative month in the prior year, and down only 6% in Q3 against the same quarter in the prior year.
Revenues at Willow Pumps, which was acquired in October 2019, and Kemac grew by 48% in Q3 compared to Q2, but were still 20% down on Q1, the company added.
Stephen Hemsley, executive chairman of Franchise Brands, said: “I am very pleased that the group saw a return to more normal levels of trading during Q3. Our key priority remains the safety of our team members, particularly our engineers, customers and the public whilst continuing to provide the best possible service we can in a challenging environment.
“The resilience and resourcefulness of our people and franchisees is allowing us to navigate through these difficult times. The strength of the group provides a platform for organic and acquisitive growth as the economic environment recovers from the pandemic. I remain optimistic for the future growth and prosperity of Franchise Brands.”