Dunelm said that pre-tax profit would be £83 million in the first half of the year ALAMYDespite not taking part in Black Friday discounting, Dunelm improved sales ahead of Christmas and forecast a one-fifth increase in first-half profits. An upgrade to the homeware retailer’s website meant that it could sell more online during the crucial period than last year. The retailer boosted its gross margin through savings from sourcing and sticking to its “everyday great value” policy and avoiding discounting before Christmas. The company sells homewares ranging from kettles to blinds and operates 172 stores. It was created from a market stall…

Source: The Times January 10, 2020 00:00 UTC