Interview Luc Leunis (CFO Maxeda DIY Group)
How do you look back on the 2021-22 financial year?
“I look back on the past financial year with satisfaction. It turned out to be a very good year, in which, despite the four-month closure imposed by the Dutch government, we were still able to realize a consumer turnover of EUR 1,504 billion with a derived EBITDA of EUR 112 million. In addition, despite the store closure in the Netherlands, for a great part we have been able to roll out our initial investment program and continue to realize the market leadership in the do-it-yourself market in the Benelux.”
44 million Euro in gross investments have been made to continue sustainable growth. How did Maxeda spend this amount?
“Every year, Maxeda invests a significant amount to continue its future growth. The largest share of the EUR 44 million went mainly to our stores. For example, to the opening of new stores, but also the enlargement, relocation, embellishment, and improvement of existing stores. A total of EUR 27 million was used for this. An investment of EUR 4 million was used for the renewal and sustainability of our product range. Finally, the last part, EUR 13 million, is invested in the optimization of our IT systems and the further digitization of our organization.”
What are you most proud of when you look back on 2021-22 financial year?
“I am very proud of the fact that we were still able to optimally serve our customers and help them realize their do-it-yourself projects from our stores and online, despite sometimes difficult situations (for example during store closure). All this thanks to the creativity and flexibility of all our 7,000 employees. I want to sincerely thank them for their performance.”
What are your expectations for the financial year 2022-23?
“The current economic climate makes it difficult to look ahead. The geopolitical situation in Ukraine, rising inflation, the high energy prices, the disrupted flows of goods, etc. clearly affect consumer confidence. Nevertheless, I look forward with confidence since we have laid a strong foundation for the future with our strategy 'Make it Sustainable'.”