Topps Tiles has reported in its interim results that pre-tax profits have soared from £4.7m to £8m, helped by a boost in consumer confidence.
The tile specialist has seen its position as market leader strengthened as first half sales increased by 11.7% to £97.7m for the period ended March 29 2014.

The retailer has also got off to a fantastic start to the second half of the year as like-for-like sales for the first seven weeks increased by 5.6%.

Chief executive Matthew Williams commented: "The Group has delivered a very successful first half performance, with strong sales growth, improving gross margins and overall growth in profits.

"Our strategy continues to focus on market share gains driven by offering an authoritative and differentiated range, outstanding service and multichannel convenience, resulting in excellent overall value for money."

Throughout the first half of the year the 330-store retailer has worked hard to provide an inspirational shopping experience for its customers.

Store improvements such as new counters and signage have been implemented to help with this.

The retailer has continued to focus on its online strategy, making its customers' online and in store experiences as integrated as possible, with further investment planned for this area.

An encouraging response from a trial of several new smaller format Topps Tiles Boutique stores was seen and now the retailer plans to open two more in the second half, close to the M25.