’Hard work’ pays off for Robert Dyas

Robert Dyas, the retailer, has thrived over Christmas, claiming its success was down to hard work.

The 85-strong chain, which sells everything from wind-up torches to popcorn makers, said underlying sales increased 6pc in the 28 days to Christmas Day and shot up 16pc in the following 10 days.

Alan Smith, chief executive, said:

"We had a pretty good Christmas compared to other high street retailers because we worked very hard at it."

The chain was bought in April 2004 by Change Capital Partners.