Lowe’s maintains annual forecast despite weak U.S. housing demand

12:00

Lowe’s Companies Inc. has maintained its full-year financial forecast despite ongoing weakness in the U.S. housing market, which continues to affect consumer spending on home improvement projects.

The company reported solid first-quarter sales that slightly exceeded market expectations, supported by steady demand from professional contractors even as household spending on large renovation projects remains cautious.

Management confirmed that it still expects flat to modest growth in comparable sales for fiscal year 2026, along with stable adjusted profit levels. This outlook reflects a cautious but resilient approach to current market conditions.

The home improvement retailer, which competes with Home Depot, noted that high interest rates and uncertainty in the housing sector are causing many consumers to delay major renovation work.

Despite these challenges, Lowe’s continues to benefit from professional customer demand, which has helped offset weaker retail activity among individual homeowners.