CARPETRIGHT’S drive to appeal to a more contemporary market showed signs of having an impact after its boss pointed to stronger sales.

Chief executive Wilf Walsh said like-for-like sales at the firm, which runs 461 UK outlets, including in Bradford, Keighley, Halifax and Guiseley, lifted 7.5 per cent in the 13 weeks to January 24, as it continues to focus on “effective promotional activity”. Total sales lifted 6.6 per cent.

Mr Walsh, who last July took the helm from founder Lord Harris of Peckham, said he will keep discount levels under review as the business shifts its appeal to a more contemporary market.

Carpetright is looking to rebound from a £7.2 million bottom-line loss last year, which was dragged down by weak trading at its European operations.

Mr Walsh, who has been managing director of bookmaker Coral, said broadening the appeal of the brand, while retaining its traditional customer base, was at the heart of his plans.