Upholstered furniture retailer DFS has reported a continued trend of improved trading with order intake showing growth.

Detailed in its latest trading update, DFS said: “As announced at our full year FY24 results on 25 September 2024 we noted an improvement in trading performance in the final quarter of the period with year on year growth in our order intake.

“This trend has continued into the current financial year, with order intake remaining in growth over the first 20 weeks of the period, inline with our expectations. In addition, the progress made on reducing our cost base through FY24 has also continued through the current financial year to date.”

Furthermore, DFS has announced the appointment of Marie Wall, who will be joining the business as Interim Chief Financial Officer on 2 December 2024 and will report into Chief Executive Officer, Tim Stacey. Marie has previously held senior finance roles at Imperial Brands, Wolseley and Dixons Carphone.

Following the announcement on 17 October 2024, DFS confirms that John Fallon will step down from the Board on 22 November 2024 and will leave the business on 17 January 2025, ensuring a thorough handover to Marie.

Steve Johnson, Chairman, said: “Marie’s experience and skills make her ideally suited to take on the role of Interim CFO, I am delighted Marie has agreed to join DFS at this key moment for the Group.”

Tim Stacey, CEO, added: “I am very pleased to welcome Marie to our Group. She is a strong addition to our leadership team bringing with her a wealth of financial leadership experience, as we pursue our growth strategy.”