Dunelm has posted sales of £448.1m in the first half of its financial year, 10.3% up on the same time last year, and pre-tax profits of £75.5m, 10.7% up on last time. Sales were driven by a strong performance in curtains and bedding, most saliently in the new ‘Kids’ range.
Home delivery sales, with transactions taking place online, rose by 24.4% in the 26 weeks to January 2. Growth in this area is “starting to accelerate” following the launch of a new web platform.
The homewares retailer outlined that growing sales, new stores and online sales via home delivery would be key as it develops the business. Store estate, which currently includes 157 stores including 151 out-of-town stores, was planned to reach 200 stores as it planned for a “post-internet” age in which online would be a “critical part of the shopping trip”.
“Our focus remains on growing the business for the longer term,” said ” said Chief Exec John Browett.
“After making good progress so far, we are continuing to work towards our three-part growth strategy and are now focused on eight core projects that will enable us to achieve this. This will allow us to improve our business substantially for our customers and, as we increase both our store network around London and our online presence, to develop Dunelm into a truly national homewares brand.”
