Carpetright on a roll as sales continue to rise

Carpetright had no complaints about the cold spring weather today as it rolled out another healthy improvement in UK sales.

The floor coverings firm, which has suffered a big decline in profitability in recent years, said underlying UK sales were up by 5.6% in the 12 weeks to Saturday, despite competitive trading conditions.

It said the cold weather, which kept households focused on indoor projects, had helped trading, alongside its own self-help measures such as store refurbishments and an extended range of laminate products.

The improvement in trading in the UK, where the company has 477 outlets, was offset by a 10% decrease in sales in the rest of Europe.

Overall, the company said it was on track to meet expectations for the financial year to the end of this month, with broker Cantor Fitzgerald forecasting profits of £10 million for the period.

It made profits of just £4 million in its last financial year, compared with £62 million in 2008.

Chief executive Darren Shapland took over from veteran boss Lord Harris of Peckham last year and has introduced a range of initiatives, including the continued development of its bed business.