The Card Factory has reported that total sales grew 6.5% in its first quarter, but footfall in its stores saw a drop.

The company said that its first quarter like-for-like sales were softer than levels achieved recently although it confirmed that it was continuing to aim for its full year like-for-like sales growth between the ranges of 1.4% - 3.2%.
The Card Factory also opened 20 net new stores bringing its total estate to 834 stores and is on the right lines to open around 50 net new stores in the current financial year.

Chief executive, Karen Hubbard, said: "Following our record performance last year, we have had a reasonable start to the year.

“Whilst not completely immune to the weaker consumer confidence seen in 2016, the market for greetings cards in the UK has proven highly resilient in the past and our unrivalled value offer will continue to appeal to a broad range of customers.

“We remain confident of making further progress this year as we continue to expand our store portfolio and further improve our in store and online proposition. Overall, our expectations for the year remain unchanged.”