Aga hit by patchy sales

The firm behind cast iron Aga cookers today reported a drop in half-year profits as “patchy” consumer behaviour hit sales.

Aga Rangemaster, which also sells refrigerators and sinks, said a strong May was followed by a quiet June, while its furnishing business Grange struggled in the period.

The Leamington Spa-based group sold 4 per cent more cast iron cookers in the six months to June 30, driven by sales of its Total Control - a cooker that looks like the original but is an electric equivalent controlled by a hi-tech touchscreen.

Despite the drop in revenues and profits, which will be confirmed in its interim results later this year, the group continues to expect revenue and profit growth for the full year.