Independent department store retailer Browns has reported a return to profit as sales also rose.

According to its latest filed accounts for the year ended 29 January 2022, total sales rose 67.9% to £8.9m from £5.3m in 2021.

Gross profit increased from £1.8m to £3.6m, while pre-tax profit resulted at £1.2m, improving from a loss of £800,000 recorded the previous year.

Stated within its report, the company said that it conducted a thorough review of working practices and Covid challenges during the period, which has led the business back into a profitable trading position.

“Online is a new venture for the business that is expected to grow in the future. Browns believes an omnichannel approach to retail is appropriate in the modern world going forward,” the business added.