Dixons Carphone, Britain's largest electricals and mobile phone retailer, beat forecasts with a 19% rise in first-half profit but said it was planning for the threat of tougher times ahead. 

The company said today that it had still not seen any effect on consumer demand in its home market as a consequence of Britain's vote in June to leave the European Union. 

Dixons Carphone trades as Currys, PC World and Carphone Warehouse in Britain and Ireland. It also operates the Elkjop and Elgiganten brands in Nordic countries and Kotsovolos in Greece.

It also said it remained optimistic about its ability to continue to gain market share in all its key markets, while its investment plans had not changed because of Brexit. 

But chief executive Seb James said the firm was planning for the possibility of more uncertain times. 

"In particular, we have been focusing on reducing our fixed cost base, identifying areas of potential market share growth if the world becomes a tougher place for our competitors, and generally preparing for all eventualities - just in case," he said. 

"We are also planning our offer so that potential currency impacts are minimised for the customer," he added. 

Robust growth in consumer spending has been one of the main drivers of Britain's economy since the Brexit vote. But many retailers may have to raise prices next year as a slide in sterling has increased import costs, probably squeezing consumer demand.

Despite reporting solid results so far in 2016, shares in Dixons Carphone have fallen 29%, given its exposure to expensive, big ticket goods and perceived vulnerability to any slide in consumer spending.

Dixons Carphone made an underlying pretax profit of £144m in the 26 weeks to October 29 - ahead of analysts' average forecast of £141m. 

Group revenue was £4.87 billion, up 11%. Sales at stores open over a year rose 4%, driven by a 5% rise in the UK and Ireland operations. 

Before today's update analysts were on average forecasting an underlying pretax profit of £487m for 2016-17, up from £447m in 2015-16. 

Dixons Retail also announced it has formed a strategic partnership with UK energy supplier SSE to provide "connected home" services.