Over the 26-week period to the end of March,
However,
On the other hand, the group said net profit were impacted by "lower volumes, operating cost inflation and the impact of operational gearing, despite strong cost control throughout the period".
The group said it expects profit in 2024 to be "weighted towards the second half".
Sales at its online business performed well, resulting in year-on-year sales growth of 38.3 per cent over the first half.
The group also said it will soon complete the acquisition of the remaining 40 per cent shareholding in fellow tile retailer
The company said:" Subdued demand in the domestic repair, maintenance and improvement sector, especially for bigger ticket projects, has persisted into 2024, resulting in lower footfall into
Shares closed down 3.86 per cent.
(c) 2024 City A.M., source