Bed spend holds up better as upholstery loses market share

2nd April | data | Beds and bedroom furniture are maintaining sales stronger than other furniture categories according to a report by retail analyst Verdict Research. It says distress purchasing means big-ticket upholstery is suffering while consumers choose to spend on items driven out of necessity.

The analyst’s UK Furniture & Floorcoverings Retailers 2009 report says while upholstery remains the largest sub-sector in the market, its share has fallen to 28% as consumers deferred sales. Beds, on the other hand, have been boosted as consumers ‘continue to value a good night’s sleep,’ even during austere times, and many will still buy if their old bed is worn out.

The report also highlights a fall in retail space over the past year, as larger operators like MFI disappeared and previously fast growing chains like ScS put the breaks on store expansion. It also says negative like for like sales have impacted on sales densities, with average sales of £145per sq ft, the lowest level since 2004.

In the floorcoverings sector, Verdict says carpets have rugs have seen a decrease in their market share to cheaper alternatives, such as vinyl floors.

For more information visit www.verdict.co.uk