Carpet, flooring & homewares specialist Carpetright has today reported a 5.6 per cent increase in like-for-like (LFL) sales in the UK in its final quarter, buoyed by cold Spring weather.
Excluding the anticipated sales contraction across its wholesale business, the retailer saw core UK retail LFLs climb 6.7 per cent in the 12 weeks to April 20th 2013 while total UK sales rose 4.4 per cent.
Group total sales grew 2.1 per cent over the period, impacted by a weak performance across Carpetright‘s Dutch business which contrasted heavily with the “solid performance” in both the Republic of Ireland and Belgium.
Across its European business, Carpetright saw LFLs in local currency decline 10.2 per cent while total sales also fell by 10.2 per cent though, despite these disappointing figures, Carpetright CEO Darren Shapland said that the overall results should be applauded, adding that the retailer had taken steps to return its Dutch arm to profitability.
“Whilst the recent cold Spring weather has been positive to our sales, we believe this performance reflects the continued success of our programme of self-help initiatives,” Shapland added.
“These include the ongoing programme of store refurbishments, the introduction of our improved laminate range to more stores, the development of our bed business and the increased use of digital media.
“This has been achieved in a market which remains challenging with consumers very focused on getting a good deal, necessitating a highly visible and compelling promotional programme.
“The Group result for the year to date is in line with management‘s expectations and whilst trading conditions remain challenging, we have good momentum with our self-help initiatives which we believe will carry onto the new financial year.”
