Trading Update

RNS Number:5864Q
Carpetright PLC
07 October 2003

7th October 2003

                                Carpetright plc
                          Early Autumn Trading Update


Carpetright, the UK's leading specialist carpet and floor coverings retailer,
today reports its early Autumn trading update for the comparable first 22 weeks
of the financial year to 1 May 2004.

Total Group trading for the first 22 weeks of the financial year has been
satisfactory and overall profitability remains in line with our expectations.

The UK business saw total sales decrease by 0.8%, for the comparable 22 weeks to
4 October 2003 with like for like sales reduced by 1.5% as a result of lower
than expected sales during August and early September. Despite this, profits
remain in line with our expectations as gross margin has increased by 2.9
percentage points compared to last year and the variable cost reduction
programme has delivered savings slightly in excess of those anticipated.

The Benelux business has continued to see some improvement in the sales trend
during the period for both Belgium and Holland although market conditions
continue to be challenging in both countries. Gross margin and costs are both
coming through in line with our expectations following the actions taken last
year.

Lord Harris of Peckham the Chairman and Chief Executive said

"Our UK business has continued to gain market share in what has been a
difficult trading environment. With good gross margin growth and variable costs
tightly controlled we continue to improve profits compared to last year. Our
Benelux business remains on track towards our medium term objectives with growth
in market share, gross margin improvement and cost savings coming through."

The Group's results for the first half to 1 November 2003 will be announced on
16 December 2003. The first half to 1 November 2003 comprises 26 weeks, whereas
the comparative period last year was the 27 weeks to 2 November 2002.


Carpetright plc
Lord Harris of Peckham, Chairman and Chief Executive
Darren Shapland, Finance Director
Telephone [phone]

Citigate Dewe Rogerson
Patrick Toyne Sewell / Sara Batchelor
Telephone [phone]


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