Hygena and Howden move ahead despite retail downturn
Total sales at MFI Furniture Group increased by 1 per cent in the 26 weeks to September 7 but UK retail sales dropped 6 per cent, or 7 per cent on a like-for-like basis.

Like-for-like sales across the group also declined slightly, by 1 per cent. However, the company's French operations were up 11 per cent in total, seven per cent by same-store figures. Howden Joinery continued its strong performance, with like-for-like sales up 8 per cent and total sales up 10 per cent.

Since the start of the second half, MFI's retail arm has experienced a deteriorating market place, with associated increased volatility, the company reported.

There has been a 15 per cent decline in orders since the half-year, when compared with the same period last year.

However, MFI's supply chain woes appear to be behind it. Further modifications were made to its IT systems in the early summer and MFI says the supply chain continues to perform reliably, leading to improving levels of delivery and customer service.

Hygena Cuisines, its French retail business, recorded a strong performance, with total net orders up 11 per cent.

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