ScS, the upholstered furniture specialist, has reported an increase in half-year profits but said trading conditions remain uncertain.

ScS said underlying EBITDA from continuing operations advanced by £0.3m to £3.4m on gross sales up 1.2% to £159.2m.

The like-for-like order intake was up 1.5% in the 26 weeks to January 26.

For the 33 weeks ended March 16, the retailer notched up like-for-like order intake growth of 2.9% and two-year growth on the same basis of 4.6%.

ScS said investment in its ecommerce proposition had driven sales growth of 30% to £7.8m and that the implementation of technology for its delivery and upholstery teams had enhanced customers’ experience.

An “orderly exit” from House of Fraser concessions was completed in January.

ScS chief executive David Knight said: “The group continues to deliver profitable growth while increasing its resilience.

“The board is pleased with year-to-date trading, which is in line with its expectations.

“Our focus on providing excellent choice, value and quality for our customers, coupled with our commitment to delivering against our strategic priorities, continues to prove successful.

“The retail market continues to suffer in the midst of the uncertain economic and political environment. We therefore expect the trading environment to continue to remain challenging in the short to medium term, although the board is confident that the group is well positioned to maximise opportunities as they arise.”