Furniture retailers have been hit by a slowdown in consumer spending growth, as less confident consumers have cut back on buying large ticket items. Yet despite the gloom that hangs over some large retail chains, there is optimism among many in the sector.

Among the more successful chains in the UK furniture scene are the single-line specialists including DFS, ScS and Land of Leather, all of which specialise in upholstered lounge furniture. Similarly the bed specialists, like Dreams, appear to be coping well. This report asks if there is a place for the general furniture retailer in today’s market, and examines strategies for success among the remaining general retail chains.