Investors

 

Press Release

Trading Update

Released: 07/01/2009

Grafton Group plc the builders merchants and DIY group with operations in the UK and Ireland, issues this trading update for the year ended 31st December 2008.

The difficult trading conditions reported in our Interim Management Statement on the 19th November continue across our markets in both the UK and Ireland. Group Turnover for the year is expected to be circa €2.67 billion after taking into account the conversion effect of the significant sterling weakness experienced in 2008.

Grafton Group is profitable and cash generative. Management continues to deal with the challenges presented in the current trading environment. The Group expects that earnings before exceptional costs for the full year will be towards the lower end of market expectations.

The Group’s announcement of its preliminary results is expected to be on February 27th, 2009.

7 January 2009

For further information please contact:
Grafton Group plc + 353 1 216 0600
Michael Chadwick, Executive Chairman
Colm Ó Nualláin, Finance Director
Murray Consultants + 353 1 498 0300
Joe Murray

Citigate Dewe Rogerson + 44 207282 2945
Ginny Pulbrook