Topps Tiles plans 40-store Dutch growth

Ceramics specialist Topps Tiles believes there is medium- term scope for a 40-strong Dutch store chain.

However, chief executive Nick Ounstead wants to ensure the business model is right before Dutch expansion is stepped up. There are eight stores in Holland and two more will open next year.

Topps, which has 196 shops, will also motor ahead with UK expansion, and plans about 25 stores a year to reach a target of 350.

The retailer announced a 22.4 per cent increase in group sales to£152.2 million for the 16 months to September 27. Like-for-like sales rose 14.3 per cent and pre-tax profit was up 45.6 per cent to£23.6 million.