Hobbycraft boost sales

Hobbycraft, which runs 53-stores across the UK, said more schools were taking up "making and crafting", which had led to more craft activity in the home.

The group, which aims to double its number of stores over the next three years, added it intends to strengthen relationships with local communities through outreach and social media programmes.

Sales in the year to February 20 rose by 12.8 per cent to £95.2 million, with underlying profits rising by 18 per cent to £14.4 million.

The group, which is owned by private equity firm Bridgepoint, said that current trading remains strong.

It has embarked on a store refit programme to incorporate more space, more contemporary design and activities that encourage customers to participate. Over the next 18 months, the group also intends to rationalise its stock and suppliers, increase global sourcing and introduce more centralised distribution to make it more efficient.

Chief executive Catriona Marshall, who took over in January, added: "The company's performance over the past year has been encouraging and reflects the growing popularity of arts and crafts in the UK."

"Whilst we are not immune to the effects of a consumer downturn, we are confident about the long-term prospects for the company", she added.

Hobbycraft caters for more than 250 different activities and sells 35,000 arts and crafts products. Its first store opened in Bournemouth in 1995.