BUILDING supplies firm Wolseley is poised to leave one of its biggest trading regions.

The Pipe Center and Plumb Center owner said it is exploring its “strategic options” in France, where it has more than 5,000 staff and generates revenues of £1.3bn a year through brands including Reseau Pro.

It said underlying revenues in France fell by 6.1% and quarterly profits slumped by £6m amid weaker construction markets.

Seymour Pierce analyst Kevin Lapwood said he believed a sale was unlikely, adding: “We believe the company will opt to close a significant part or all of the French business.”