The Direct Company has reported a turnover increase of more than 21% for April 2008, in comparison with the same month last year.

It said that the service and terms offered to retailers and the financial stability of the business for suppliers helped generate results that provided a little bit of sunshine amidst stories of economic doom and gloom.

Managing director, Paul Woolley said: "With the overwhelming weight of reports of difficult trading conditions, it's good to announce a bright spot of retail success."

Turnover in The Direct Company is up more than 10% on a like-for-like basis in the year to-date despite the inclement retail weather.