JD Sports Fashion reports improving sales

In the 8 weeks to 5th June 2010, UK and Ireland like for like retail sales growth were up 4.1% (Sports Fascias up 5.1%; Fashion Fascias down 1.2%).

The Sports Fascias performance continues to be satisfactory and has been positively influenced in recent weeks by the upcoming World Cup. The trend of performance in both Fashion Fascias has been positive over the last eight weeks resulting in Bank now showing 0.3% like for like growth over the eighteen week period to 5 June 2010 and Scotts showing a reduced decline of 4.4%.

JD said margins achieved have continued to be encouraging, with particularly satisfactory progress in the Fashion Fascias.

Chausport’s good start to the year has continued and the Board remains satisfied with the foundations being built for future profit growth in other recently acquired businesses. The Group will provide its next trading update with the Interim Results Announcement on 21st September 2010.