THE new boss of floor coverings retailer Carpetright says the firm must broaden its appeal to remain a market leader.

Wilf Walsh has revealed plans to remove negative perceptions about the brand.

Mr Walsh, who took over from founder and veteran retailer Lord Harris of Peckham, said an initial assessment found a “fundamentally sound business”, but one which requires some updating.

He added broadening the appeal of the brand, while retaining its traditional customer base, was at the heart of his plans.

His comments came as Carpetright, which owns Sunderland-based Storey Carpets, posted stronger than expected half-year results for the period to October 25.

Pre-tax profits more than doubled to £6.7m, with UK like-for-like revenues increasing by 6.5 per cent on the back of improved customer confidence and a focus on price promotions.

The company added its European division, which covers Ireland, Netherlands and Belgium, continued to improve, reversing £1.4m losses experienced in the first half of the previous year.

Mr Walsh said: “Having made a solid start to the year, we now expect full year underlying pre-tax profits to be towards the upper end of market expectations.

“With a well researched and well executed strategy, we can begin to re-shape the business to ensure it fully capitalises on its market-leading position.

“These changes will take time, but we are absolutely focused on maintaining the improvements in the performance of the group.”