AIREA plc, the UK design-led specialist flooring company, supplying both the UK and international markets, has announced a decline in half year sales but remained ahead of market trends.

According to its latest trading update for the six months ended 30 June 2024, following a strong start to the year, the Group experienced an unforeseen slowdown in the second quarter. Sales for the period were 5.6% down year on year, though slightly ahead of the overall market trend.

UK and ROI sales ended the period 0.3% down year on year, while sales in its international markets were impacted by ongoing economic and geopolitical concerns and ended the period 21.9% behind the prior year.

“There has been an encouraging start to the third quarter, with positive trading in July and finishing with a strong order book, especially for our low-carbon and carbon-neutral products,” the company said.

“The Group’s commitment to innovation remains steadfast, with several new product launches scheduled for the second half of the year.”

AIREA added that it continues to advance in its longer-term strategy with the major investment in its manufacturing facility in Ossett, West Yorkshire, announced in January, remaining on track to be completed in early 2025.

Looking ahead, the group added: “The Board anticipates a continued improvement in trading during the second half of the year. However, in view of the difficult conditions in the second quarter, coupled with the continued programme of investment in the Group’s transformation, the Board has moderated its full year sales growth and profit expectations.

“The Board remains confident in the Group’s long-term trading and growth prospects.”