Dunelm has reported a 2.9% increase in fourth-quarter sales, with strong demand for its summer ranges helping to offset a decline in store footfall during June’s heatwave.

Sales for the 13 weeks to June 27 rose to £428 million, as shoppers continued to spend on seasonal home and garden products despite exceptionally hot weather affecting visits to stores.

The homewares retailer, which operates more than 200 stores across the UK and Ireland, said footfall declined during two separate weeks in the quarter as extreme temperatures discouraged customers from visiting its shops.

Despite the softer footfall, Dunelm maintained its full-year profit guidance, with margins supported by disciplined cost management and favourable foreign exchange rates.

The retailer also noted that customers became increasingly value-conscious during the second half of the financial year, with more shoppers opting for discounted products.

The update follows recent industry data showing UK retail footfall fell during June as record temperatures kept shoppers away from high streets, although retailers with strong seasonal ranges proved more resilient.

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