The UK's biggest builders merchant, Travis Perkins, is closing 30 branches, putting 600 jobs at risk.
The company, which employs 28,000 people across its 2,060 stores, said it was taking the steps due to an "uncertain UK outlook" for next year.
Profits will also be lower than expected this year due to weak sales in its plumbing and heating division.
The firm is closing branches of Travis Perkins, Benchmarx, BSS and PTS, but not its DIY store Wickes.
BBC: Travis Perkins says 600 jobs at risk amid branch closures
Comments
I'd suggest it's facing stiff opposition from other cheaper BM's and pop-up stores like Screwfix et al.
Like many struggling businesses, they are using the current situation to mask underlying problems?
Around my location they are known as an 'expensive' supplier with less than transparent pricing