Sofa chain DFS have announced an increase in the first half of the year, with sales in the 26 weeks up to January 28th up by 7%. The company suggested that it is prepared to handle an economic downturn in the face of a fall in the value of the pound. Though this may initially raise operating costs, the company is confident that it can negotiate better deals with their suppliers to limit the effects this will have on profits. They followed the sales announcement by stating, “with its resilient operating model we believe the group remains very well positioned to respond to economic headwinds and cost pressures whilst achieving continued growth in its share of the UK retail furniture market.