RNS Number:4563U
Homestyle Group PLC
21 January 2004

                                                                 21 January 2004

                              HOMESTYLE GROUP PLC

                    TRADING UPDATE & APPOINTMENT OF CHAIRMAN


Trading

Homestyle announces its trading update following the important Christmas and New
Year period.

Over the 7 weeks to 17th January 2004, Group sales (orders taken) were #113.8m
(2003: #112.5m), with like for like sales 1% ahead (excluding Kitchen Studio).
There was also an improvement in the Group gross margin.

The Beds Division achieved a 6% increase in like for like sales at improved
margins.

As anticipated the Home Textiles Division's like for like sales were down 4%
however, its gross profit improvement more than made up for this shortfall.

Harveys' like for like sales were up 1% with margins showing a small decline. In
the core furniture range an improved sales performance of 4% reflects the
success of new products introduced in the autumn. The conversion of the textile
and bed departments is on schedule and due to be completed by the summer.


Kitchen Studio

In line with our announced intention, we have now disposed of the Kitchen Studio
business to its supplier for a nominal consideration.

The write off of fixed assets in the non transferring stores and other closure
costs are estimated to amount to #1.5 million.


Appointment of Chairman

The Board is pleased to announce the appointment of David Brock, aged 54, as
part time executive Chairman with immediate effect to succeed Sir Gordon
Hourston.  He was a Board Director at MFI Furniture Group PLC from 1984 to 1997.

He is currently Non-Executive Chairman of a number of private equity owned
businesses, including Jane Norman and Actif Group Plc and former Chairman of The
Card Warehouse.

Commenting on his appointment, David Brock, said: "Homestyle enjoys leading
positions in each of the home related markets in which it operates.  My role
will be to ensure that greater value is created from these businesses following
a review of all elements of our operations."

Michael Rosenblatt, Chief Executive, said: "David's considerable experience will
enable him to make a significant contribution to the Board.  I would also like
to wish Sir Gordon Hourston a long and happy retirement and express our thanks
for his considerable contribution to the business over the years."

Homestyle confirms that there are no other details which require to be disclosed
under paragraph 6F.2b - g of the UKLA Listing Rules with respect to David Brock.


ENQUIRIES:

HOMESTYLE GROUP PLC                               HUDSON SANDLER
Michael Rosenblatt, Chief Executive               Andrew Hayes / Jessica Rouleau

Tel: 01925 647200                                 Tel: 020 7796 4133


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