Carpetright like-for-likes in the UK & Ireland rose 1.5% in the 12 weeks to April 24, which was below internal expectations.

Revenue increased 6.8% while group sales grew 4.9%.

In the 51 weeks to April 24, like-for-likes grew 3.1% in the UK & Ireland, while total sales increased 8.5%. Group revenue increased 7.5%.

Revenue in Carpetright’s European arm grew 3.4%, but declined by the same amount in constant  currency. Like-for-likes fell 3.1%, but are improving, growing 1.6% in the 12 week period.

13 stores were closed in the half, bringing Carpetright’s total store count to 703.

Carpetright chairman and chief executive Lord Harris of Peckham said: “UK market conditions have continued to be difficult.  Since our last trading update on March 23, sales have been slightly below our expectations and we anticipate the year ahead to remain challenging. 

 “Our businesses in The Netherlands and Belgium continue to trade well and have now returned to like-for-like growth.”