Carpet-maker Victoria PLC has seen revenue rise by 17 per cent after an improvement in fortunes in the first half of 2011.

Kidderminster-based Victoria (VCP) saw sales rise to £39 million in the six months to October 1 after strengthening its sharer of the UK market.

The group saw pre-tax profits grow by more than two-fold, to £1.27 million, across the period.

It said it delivered the performance against a backdrop of “challenging economic and tough market conditions”, but saw its UK business out-perform the market and return to profit, while its Australian business delivered improved results.

The group said: “The board’s objective remains focused on building Victoria’s brand reputation and improving the quality of its earnings. To do this, we plan to continue to invest in our business for the future and, during the remainder of this current financial year, we will be making significant investment in both new carpet ranges and in the luxury vinyl tile market.

“We feel confident that alongside our traditional business, these new product initiatives, allied to anticipated growth in new market areas, will help the group continue to gain market share and place Victoria in a commanding position to exploit any opportunities presented by the market.”