Sales increase for Aga Rangemaster - graduate jobs

Graduates looking to break into the consumer brands industry may be encouraged to hear that the maker of iconic cast iron Aga cookers has enjoyed a successful year boosted by a seasonal pick-up in sales.

Aga Rangemaster has reported a 5% hike in Aga volumes this year despite tough markets and an uncertain time for the industry.

The rise, thought to have been caused by owners upgrading their models and burner systems, was offset by a further decline in volumes of all-in-one cooker-boiler brands, Rayburn and Stanley. However, the Leamington Spa-based firm hopes to reverse this trend next year as a new range of boilers is completed.

Chief executive William McGrath said he was pleased with how the company's brands performed in autumn, a key selling period, amid tough house market conditions.

He added: "Recent research we commissioned shows range cookers are on trend and aspirational and for many move the heart of the home from the living room to the kitchen.

"As we are focused on range cookers and kitchen living these trend lines provide confidence in our prospects."