Dunelm boosted by strong online sales
Homewares retailer Dunelm saw its online sales more than treble in its third quarter from the same period last year.
In the 13 weeks to 27 March, total sales were down 16.8% to £236.6 million, although the strength of the retailer’s digital proposition enabled it to cover over 83% of prior year sales despite store closures due to Covid-19.
As a result of the trading, Dunelm said it now expects its full year pre-tax profit to be modestly ahead of the top of the current range of analyst expectations.
Nick Wilkinson, Dunelm chief executive, said: “In a quarter when we were largely unable to open our stores, it has been very encouraging to see the strength of our digital channels which have enabled us to cover over 83% of sales from the same period last year. This resilient performance is testament to the commitment and dedication of our teams, who continue to adapt and innovate the Dunelm customer proposition.”
Looking ahead to when its 156 stores in England and Wales reopen after lockdown next week, Dunelm said the shops were well stocked and ready to welcome back customers. While its stores in Scotland are already open, the retailer is currently awaiting news on when it can reopen its four stores in Northern Ireland.
Dunelm said its newest store in Newcastle-under-Lyme and its refurbished and extended store in Banbury will also both open next week. The Newcastle-under-Lyme store will feature a ‘Make & Mend’ department to encourage product repair and re-use, as well as an extended home decorating offer.
Wilkinson added: “We are now looking forward to re-opening our stores, with colleagues ready to welcome back our customers. We have worked hard to rebuild inventory levels and our stores are well stocked across our product range.”
