The retailer's boss, Lord Harris (pictured), will tell shareholders at today's annual general meeting that trading in the UK and Ireland has remained difficult because of weak consumer confidence and strong comparatives with last year.
Total sales in the 15 weeks to April 29 fell 7.3 per cent, while like-for-likes were down 7.5 per cent. Selling space added during the period was offset by the closure of Carpetright's Allders concessions.
However, Harris maintained a bullish note, and said: 'In this tough trading environment, Carpetright has continued to take market share in all the countries in which it trades.'
The results could not be more unfortunate for Harris, who may face the prospect of a shareholder revolt at the meeting over his desire to retain the roles of chairman and chief executive. Reports last week indicated that The Pensions Investment Research Consultants is urging shareholders to oppose his reappointment at the meeting unless he agrees to separate the two roles.
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