Market 'challenging'
Ceramic tile and wood flooring retailer Topps Tiles has revealed an expected revenue increase of 3.9 per cent to£180.2 million, but like-for-likes were down 1.8 per cent in the 52 weeks ending September 30.

Operating profits increased 5.6 per cent to£38.9 million, compared to£36.8 million last year and adjusted pre-tax profit increased 6.5 per cent to£39.9 million.

The company said that market conditions 'remain challenging', but the UK tile market is forecast to grow in volume by over 15 per cent between next year and 2011.

Topps Tiles first national advertising campaign was launched late this October. The tiling specialist has more than 271 stores throughout the UK, with an opening programme of 30 stores each financial year. The company has a long-term target of a minimum of 400 outlets UK-wide.

Commenting on the results, Topps Tiles chief executive officer Nick Ounstead said: 'We are confident in our business model, which, despite difficult market conditions, has remained resilient and has continued to grow our market share.

'Additionally, we have increased our store roll-out programme to 30 stores for this financial year and believe our strategy will continue to deliver future growth.'