Northallerton-based independent department store retailer Barkers has reported a slight growth in sales as turnover remained over £20m.

According to its latest filed accounts for the year ended 31 January 2024, total sales rose 1% to £21.2m from £21m in 2023.

Pre-tax profit resulted at £1.6m, down from £2.7m recorded the previous year.

Stated within its report, Barkers, which trades from its department store on the High Street and its Home store on Yafforth Road, said that sales were consistent with the prior year, while gross margin remained strong at 47.2% compared to 47.8%.

“The past year has seen consistent levels of turnover when compared to the prior year, driven by the continuing development of the Barkers Home business and strong trading from the high street store and improved results from the restaurants and café business.

“Operating profit has fallen in the year due to significant increases in wages, energy and rates costs, experienced by businesses nationwide.”