DIYWEEK.net

British homewares retailer Dunelm reported total revenue for the first quarter rose by 24.8% to £247.9 million, showing a growth of £49.2 million.

Total like-for-like revenue grew by 9.3%.

Commenting on Dunelm's performance, Chairman Andy Harrison said: "We have maintained the good momentum from the final quarter of the last financial year. Our like-for-like sales were boosted by favourable weather comparatives and, pleasingly, we continue to outperform the homewares market, with strong growth across the business, especially online.

"The integration of the Worldstores business continues on plan, with good progress in the quarter. We are well on the way to becoming a genuine multi-channel retailer, with 16% of sales in the quarter online (19% including Reserve and Collect)."

Dunelm reports a growth of presence in the South-East and London, and now have 11 stores inside the M25.

Mr Harrison continued: "We head into the second quarter having opened a number of new stores and with an improved seasonal offer for the Christmas period, which we're sure will resonate well with customers."

The spike in revenue was due to "favourable weather" and Dunelm continue to expand on their presence within the sector with reports of further new stores, all of which will open before the end of the calendar year.