Galiform, the owner of Howden Joinery, has seen a significant drop in like-for-like sales drop by nearly 7% since the summer. But the company says it is still confident its profit prediction for the year will be on target.

Howden, which supplies kitchens to builders through its 456 depots, said total sales for the year up to November 1 were up 3.6% to nearly £702m, but 1.6% lower on a like-for-like same depot basis.

However, since the end of the first half of the year in mid-June total sales have dropped 1.5% and by 6.7% on a same depot basis.

In its half-year report, the company had warned of a slowdown in sales growth in the early summer. Conversion of leads has become harder since Septemner and selling prices are coming under pressure. Sales in October are lower than the 'very high levels' seen in the same period last year, at £125m they are £10m higher than 2006.

The company has opened 20 new depots this year.

"We continue to focus on new product opportunities," said a statement. "We have introduced five new ranges since July and are currently introducing a range of entry level freestanding appliances. In looking to raise brand awareness with trade customers and their 'end purchaser' customers, we have tested advertising in consumer and trade magazines, as well as national newspapers."

Galiform is still suffering from its acrimonious split with MFI in 2006. The company was left as guarantor for rent and costs at 46 MFI properties, and it has received demands from the landlords of 27 of them totaling £3.6m.

Looking ahead the company says it managing the business on the assumption that the UK's economic environment will not improve in the short term.

Chief executive Matthew Ingle said: "We continue to deliver good performance in tough trading conditions. This is testimony to the motivation of our people, our business model and the strength of our competitive position."