Dunelm draws comfort from blankets as customers seek warmth for winter

DEMAND for comforting rugs, throws, thermal curtains and electric blankets from shoppers anxious to keep heating costs down has boosted homeware retailer Dunelm.

The company, which began in 1979 as a market stall selling curtains singled out the “very good response” to the launch of its Winter Warm range as the nights draw in.

It said it would meet revenue expectations for the year despite an 8% dip in sales to £357 million in the first quarter to October 1.

CEO Nick Wilkinson said: “As we enter what will clearly be a challenging winter for consumers, our absolute focus remains on making every pound count for everyone”.

Dunelm’s shares fell 16p to 790p, a drop of 2%.