DFS gears up for international growth

The ​Doncaster-based firm said adjusted earnings rose 16.5 per cent to £27.6m in the six months to January 31.

The group, which returned to the London Stock Exchange earlier this month, has opened its first Continental European store in The Netherlands as part of its drive to become a “truly world class” business.

DFS said it is confident it will post annual results in line with market expectations after reporting an 11 per cent increase in sales to £431.2m in the first half.

Chief executive Ian Filby said: “DFS remains well positioned to deliver long-term profitable growth as one of the UK’s best-known brands, a major British manufacturer and the country’s leading retailer of upholstered furniture.

“Our IPO has further strengthened our financial position and given us an excellent platform from which to fulfil our vision of taking DFS from a great British business to a world class business.”

In addition to its international expansion, the group plans to open three to five stores a year in the UK.