United Carpets posts mixed like-for-likes

However, in the 30 weeks to October 23 it outperformed its struggling rivals in the homewares sector, posting a 3 per cent like-for-like increase.

The retailer said its stores have benefited from the introduction of new flooring and bed ranges and an increased focus on customer service.

In a statement, United Carpets said: “Flooring and beds performed strongly at the beginning of the financial year, coming under more pressure as the expectation of an economic slowdown increased during the summer.

“While recognising that few retail businesses are immune to a general economic slowdown, we believe United Carpets is better placed than many to operate in the current environment.

"The business benefits from its franchise model, which ensures the majority of stores are run by highly motivated self-employed franchisees targeting the value end of the market. This together with our principles of steady, controlled growth supported by positive average cash balances means that the group continues to deliver a stable performance.”

The retailer will report its interim results for the six months to September 30 in December.

This week rival retailer Carpetright revealed like-for-likes dropped 12.5 per cent in its UK and Ireland business, in the 25 weeks to October 25.