Laura Ashley hails 63% online growth

Home furnishings chain Laura Ashley said it is generating 12 per cent of its sales from the internet after its revamped website grew revenues by 63 per cent.

Demand for made-to-order upholstery and curtains drove the online improvement as the Malaysian-owned chain posted profits before tax and exceptionals of 10.5 million in the 26 weeks to July 31, up from 1.1m last year. The interim dividend is doubled to 0.5p.