Heatwave helps members after sluggish start to year

On average, member firms were up 10% year-on-year for Quarter 2 2018. A positive second quarter following a sluggish start to the year, no doubt impacted by the good weather in May/June. 77% of members indicate the summer heatwave had a positive impact on their garden/outdoor sales turnover. 158 member branches are included in the HAI Business Index.

The positive year-on-year performance for Quarter 2 peaks among Dublin member firms, followed by the Rest of Leinster, Connacht/Ulster and Munster. Smaller hardwares had an outstanding second quarter with 23% growth on 2017 – must have been the increase in fly spray/repellent sales.

The Quarter 2 monthly moving average is an increase of 6%. The decline between May and June is similar to last year (June 2017 = 95%).

The monthly moving average for Quarter 2 is very consistent across member groups.

If you’re a HAI member you can participate in the Business Index, fully confidentially, and you will receive a detailed breakdown of statistics, a summary of which is highlighted in the infographic below. For more information about participating call 01 298 0969 or email.