Dunelm Group, the homewares retailer, has seen a “strong sales performance” for its first half despite a tough market backdrop.
In a new trading update the Leicestershire-based business has indicated that total sales increased by 4.5% to £872m. Pre-tax profit expectations for the full year, meanwhile, are in line with market expectations.
Dunelm said of the positive figures: “Growth in the first half was driven by customer demand for our consistent, outstanding value proposition. Whilst we are conscious that the outlook for consumer spending remains unpredictable and market conditions volatile, we are confident that we can deliver further market share gains and retain our tight operational grip on costs.”
Nick Wilkinson, Chief Executive Officer, added: “The breadth of our range and outstanding value of our proposition continues to be well received by customers, resulting in a strong sales performance for the first half despite a tough market backdrop.
“Consumers remain under pressure and are actively seeking true value at all price points. Our customer offer and positioning as the ‘Home of Homes’ resonates particularly well in this environment, and we are confident we have continued to gain market share. At the same time, our strong operational grip continues to help us navigate the difficult environment and manage our margins.
“Looking ahead, we remain excited about the compelling opportunity for growth for our business. We have continued to execute at pace on our strategic plans, opening four new stores over the first half of the year, whilst continuing to expand our ranges and improve our digital offer. Our new Spring collections look fantastic in store and are being really well received by customers as we reach the end of our Winter Sale, leaving us well placed to make further progress in the months ahead.”
