In a trading update for the 26 weeks ended 29th January 2022, ahead of its interim results, ScS has reported "significant order book growth and robust trading".
The group says it traded well through the important winter sale period, with order intake for the first half of the year in line with the board's expectations, with one-year LFL order intake growth of +16.6%. Two-year LFL order intake is in line with that achieved in the pre-pandemic 26-week period to 25th January 2020.
The group says its online offering and appeal to customers continues to strengthen, with online order growth of +55.8% compared to the equivalent 26-week period to 25th January 2020 (Yo2Y).
ScS' order book has grown significantly against previous comparative periods, driven by the ongoing demand and supply chain challenges which have extended product lead times. As of 29th January, the order book was double the size Yo2Y, at £148.0m. The group is working closely with suppliers to mitigate the risk of continued supply chain disruption in the second half of the financial year.