Carpetright plc has announced a trading update for the 12 weeks ending 18th April 2015, and expectations for the full year.
Like-for-like sales in the UK increased by 10.5%, while total sales increased by 9%. Carpetright's full-year gross profit margin is expected to be in line with expectations. A net two stores closed during the period, leaving 459 trading locations.
Wilf Walsh, chief executive, says: "I am pleased to report that the group’s encouraging trading momentum is being maintained during the final quarter of our financial year. In the UK, our continued focus on effective promotional activity and the introduction of an interest-free credit offer has supported solid like-for-like sales growth of 10.5%. Sales in the rest of Europe have also continued to improve, building on the progress made in the third quarter.
“In light of this strong finish to the year, we now expect that underlying pre-tax profits for the full year will be above the current range of market expectations at around £13m. The group is well positioned to continue to grow market share and profitability, as we implement our plans to extend the appeal of the Carpetright brand."
