Leroy Merlin Reports Modest Growth in 2025 FRANCE: Leroy Merlin recorded a 1.4% increase in business volume in 2025, reaching US$ 11.5 billion (€9.8 billion) in France, outperforming a declining DIY market estimated at around -3%. Growth was largely driven by strong e-commerce performance, with online visits rising by 10% and click-and-collect sales increasing by over 5%, indicating improved digital conversion. In addition, sales to professional customers grew by 10% to US$ 1

Villeroy & Boch Maintains Stability in FY2025 with Revenue Growth Despite Challenging Market Conditions Germany: Villeroy & Boch reported a resilient performance in 2025, with revenue rising 1.8% to EUR 1,447 million and operating EBIT reaching EUR 97.8 million despite weak construction activity and subdued consumer spending. The Bathroom & Wellness division grew 2.3% to EUR 1,124.5 million (3.4% currency-adjusted), supported by acquisitions including Ideal Standard, while ma

Japan’s Real Wages Rise 1.4% in January as Base Salaries Record Fastest Growth in 33 Years Japan: Japan reported a 1.4% year-on-year increase in real wages in January, marking the first rise in 13 months, as inflation cooled and nominal wages grew 3.0% to about USD 1,911 per month. Base salaries increased 3.0%, the fastest growth since October 1992, while overtime pay rose 3.3% and special payments, mainly bonuses, climbed 3.8%. The consumer inflation rate used to calculate r

Geberit Reports Sales Growth in 2025 Despite Weak European Construction Market SWITZERLAND: Geberit Group reported resilient performance in 2025 despite weak construction activity in Europe. Net sales rose 2.5% to US$ 4.01 billion (CHF 3.16 billion), or 4.8% in currency-adjusted terms, supported by strong product launches and broad-based market growth. Operating cashflow (EBITDA) increased 2.0% to US$1.18 billion (CHF 931 million), with the EBITDA margin at 29.4%, slightly be

Home Depot and Lowe’s Earnings Calls Show Retail Trends and Strategic Focus USA: The latest Home Depot & Lowe’s, with more color analysis outlines key insights from the two largest U.S. home‑improvement retailers’ recent earnings discussions. Home Depot reported modest increases in comparable‑store sales and reflected on stable underlying demand, while Lowe’s highlighted solid sales performance and broader merchandise momentum. Both companies addressed macroeconomic pressures