Independent furniture retailer Cookes has reported another year of strong sales despite a slight decline in turnover.

According to its latest filed accounts for the year ended 31 March 2024, total sales fell 11.2% to £9.5m from £10.7m in 2023.

Pre-tax profit resulted at £83,000, down from £661,000 recorded the previous year.

Stated within its report, the company said: “Continued investment in both showrooms has improved the customer experience and allowed us to showcase a wider range of products from several new brand partners, further strengthening the quality and depth of our product offer.

“The Directors and senior management team have produced a strong set of results for the business, despite a challenging year, where domestic and international events created instability, which led customers to remain cautious in committing to big ticket purchases. Whilst turnover was reduced from the prior year, margin improved by 0.6 percentage points and increases in overhead costs were below inflation.

“Cookes continued its long-term investment strategy in our showrooms, product offer and teams, to develop the exceptional and trusted retail experience we strive to deliver. A focus on the innovative use of technology, to connect with existing and new customers is helping Cookes develop a unique shopping experience for our customers and maintain our five-star standards of service through every step of the customer journey.”