Carpetright has reported an increase in total sales of 3.9 per cent at its UK and Ireland division for the third quarter, although like-for-like sales fell 4 per cent.

For the 13 weeks to 26 January, Carpetright reported stronger sales in Belgium and the Netherlands, where total sales increased 10.2 per cent and like-for-likes rose 3.1 per cent. In Poland, like-for-likes increased 16 per cent. Total sales for the group rose 4.8 per cent.

Carpetright chairman and chief executive Lord Harris said: “The third quarter started strongly, but there has subsequently been a slowdown. In an increasingly challenging environment, sales growth will be harder to come by, but I am confident that our businesses are well positioned in their markets and I expect our full-year out-turn to be in line with expectations.”

Carpetright has lost its group finance director Ian Kenyon, who leaves on February 29 to become chief financial officer of the retail and distribution division of Carphone Warehouse.

Lord Harris said: “Ian has done an excellent job for Carpetright and has been an important member of the senior team. We know though that The Carphone Warehouse offers him a great opportunity to further develop his career and wish him every success in this new position.”

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