Wolseley plc’s profits were up by more than 30% for the 11 months ending June 30, 2004, the company has announced in its regular trading update.

The firm said its businesses in the UK and North America outperformed their markets, with higher prices reported for lumber and structural panels.

Wolseley’s sales were up by 20%, compared to the same period in 2003.

Its UK operations, which include the Build Center chain, recorded double-digit sales and trading profit growth, with organic growth of more than 6%. The repair, maintenance and improvement sector fuelled demand.

The company’s preliminary results for the 12 months ending July 31, 2004 will be announced on September 27.