Due to unseasonably warm temperatures, Dunelm, the homewares retailer has reported a drop in like-for-like sales in its first quarter.

Figures show like-for-like sales dropped 3.8% and total revenue decreased 1.8% to £198.7 million in the 13 weeks to October 1st.

Despite a decline in footfall, Dunelm continued to see good progress in its online business, with figures showing a rise of 17.9% in home delivery sales.

John Browett, chief executive, said: “As expected, the homewares market has fallen due to unusually warm weather and this has correspondingly impacted our store performance over the period given the reduced footfall to our out-of-town superstores. However, we have continued to focus on our value based customer proposition and are increasing our market share in homewares, whilst also seeing good growth in our online business.”

Whilst no new stores were opened in this period, the homeware retailer is committed to opening 10 new stores, nine of which should be opening in the existing financial year and four before the end of the calendar year. Meanwhile, a 15-store refit programme is underway with three stores due to be completed before the end of the calendar year.

Mr Browett added: “We are looking forward to a stronger second quarter as we continue to invest in extra seasonal space, new till systems, store refits and new store openings. We should also benefit from weaker comparatives.”