Ethical homewares brand Nkuku reports a strong peak trading performance, reporting +18% YoY sales growth from October to December, marking its third consecutive year of peak growth, "reflecting the strength of its values-led model, combining considered design, ethical sourcing and long-term supplier partnerships with disciplined commercial execution".
Growth was driven by improved customer loyalty, continued new customer acquisition and strong reactivation of lapsed customers, states the retailer. Strong double-digit YoY growth was seen across multi-purchase active customers, new customer revenue and reactivation of lapsed customers.
Across the period, Nkuku traded with more customers than at any point in the past, alongside higher average basket sizes across all customer groups, "underlining sustained demand for products designed to last".
CEO James Lowe comments: “Delivering a third consecutive year of strong peak growth in a challenging consumer environment reflects both the strength of our proposition and the dedication of our team and partners. Customers continue to respond to products that are not only beautifully designed but made with integrity.
“Looking ahead to 2026, while market conditions remain uncertain, we are confident that our commitment to natural materials, responsible production and consciously crafted design will continue to underpin sustainable, long-term growth.”
Drilling down into the details, strong results from new autumn/winter lines was supported by resilient core ranges, says Nkuku: "Lighting, furniture and homewares all enjoyed a successful season, reflecting customer appetite for crafted, natural materials, whilst our enormously popular, consciously designed Christmas collection also delivered strong YoY growth, demonstrating the strength of values-led seasonal ranges.
"Efficient stock management, excellent logistics performance, and long-standing supplier relationships supported a smooth peak trading period, enabling high service levels. Customer satisfaction improved YoY, with Net Promoter Score at 73, reflecting consistent delivery against customer expectations.
"Trade sales saw robust growth YoY, supported by aligned brand partnerships including John Lewis & Partners. The period also saw strategic progress across the channel mix, including launches with Next, the opening of Nkuku at Redbrick, and the introduction of an interior design service at the brand’s Devon flagship store.
"Brand relevance continued to strengthen, with press coverage up over 30% YoY and social engagement increasing over 50% YoY, driven by storytelling focused on craftsmanship, sustainability and the people behind Nkuku’s products," it concludes.
