Dunelm saw an uplift in profit and sales during its first half, as it continued to grow its market share.
Profit rose 4.8% for the half to 30 December to reach £123m for the home furnishings retailer as sales advanced 4.5% to £872m.
The business saw a 4.2% spike in its number of active customers as well as increased transaction frequency, as it said its “strengthened customer offer” drove growth across its categories and channels.
The retailer said it was continuing to invest to increase its broad appeal while maintaining a tight operational grip.
Dunelm also saw a rise in its digital sales, which made up 36% of its total sales from 34% the year before.
The company launched four new stores during the half, taking its total number of shops to 183.
Subscribe to Retail Gazette for free
Sign up here to get the latest news straight into your inbox each morning
Looking ahead, the retailer said its pre-tax profit expectations for the full year remained unchanged and it was “pleased” with trading so far in its second half.
Dunelm CEO Nick Wilkinson said: “In the past six months we have kept our customers front of mind, ensuring our broad offer has value at its core whilst also expanding our ranges, introducing new styles, and improving the experience across our store and digital channels.
“Despite ongoing pressures on consumers, we are encouraged by the wide variety of new customers shopping with Dunelm, and existing shoppers also coming back more frequently.”
He added: “Alongside the positive sales performance we have delivered a very strong gross margin, which is testament to our tight operational control and the inherent strength of our business model.”
Click here to sign up to Retail Gazette‘s free daily email newsletter
