Budget greetings card retailer Card Factory has revealed an increase in group full-year sales and profits as it pushed ahead with its aggressive expansion strategy.

EBITDA rose 18% to £75.2m from £63.8m in the year to January 31, according to documents filed at Companies House under the name CF Topco, which includes online gifting business Gettingpersonal.co.uk.

Sales jumped 13% to £300m in the year.

Card Factory opened 53 shops in the period, taking its store count to 664. It aims to double its store estate.

Card Factory raised £165m after refinancing this month to pay a dividend to private equity owner Charterhouse. The five-year facility is in addition to its existing debt.

The retailer scrapped recent plans for an IPO or sale but has not ruled out either option, it is understood.

Chief executive Richard Hayes said the retailer has continued to trade well this year.

 

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