Topps Tiles, a leading tile retailer, has reported an increase in sales during the first half of 2025, attributed to a strong performance in March. According to the company's latest trading update for the 26-week period ending 29 March 2025, group sales rose by 4% to £127.7 million compared to the previous year.
Despite slower trading in January, sales volumes gradually increased, culminating in a strong March performance. The Group reported underlying sales growth of 4.4% in the second quarter, up from 3.3% in the first quarter. Underlying like-for-like sales within the Topps Tiles brand rose by 3.7% year-on-year in the second quarter, with overall like-for-like sales up by 3% in the first half.
Topps Tiles stated that while homeowner sales remained subdued, trade sales demonstrated significant growth. As part of its 'Mission 365' strategy, digital initiatives continued to progress, leading to a 15% increase in digital channel sales and a fourfold rise in online trade traffic. Additionally, trade sales in the Topps Tiles brand increased by 12% year-on-year, with active traders up 11% to 146,000.
The company made strategic advancements with a new customer engagement platform and a trade app, expected to launch in 2025 and 2026, respectively. Other brands under the Group, including Pro Tiler Tools and Tile Warehouse, also reported year-on-year growth.
Regarding the acquisition of CTD, Topps Tiles stated that the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has approved in principle the proposed undertaking to dispose of four stores, avoiding a Phase II investigation.
Chief Executive Rob Parker commented: 'Following our return to sales growth in the early weeks of the year, we are pleased to see this trend accelerate in the second quarter, driven by some initial signs of success from our new strategic initiatives.'
Despite mixed macroeconomic indicators, the company remains committed to its growth strategy, confident in achieving its 'Mission 365' goal in the medium term.
Source: www.bigfurnituregroup.com