No picnic for Blacks Leisure as it warns on profits

The picture at outdoor equipment retailer Blacks Leisure is looking more black than leisurely as it issued a profit warning after further weakening of trading conditions.

The picture at outdoor equipment retailer Blacks Leisure is looking more black than leisurely as it issued a profit warning after further weakening of trading conditions.

Much will depend, as ever, on the crucial Christmas trading period, but sales have tapered off recently, prompting the company to "manage margins in order to drive sales", and based on recent trading the full-year results are likely to be below expectations.

An even tough trading environment is the last thing the cash-strapped company needs, as it seeks more funds to implement its turnaround plan.

Subscribe to MoneyWeek

Subscribe to MoneyWeek today and get your first six magazine issues absolutely FREE

Get 6 issues free
https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/flexiimages/mw70aro6gl1676370748.jpg

Sign up to Money Morning

Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter

Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter

Sign up

Constructive dialogue has been maintained with the group's bankers, Bank of Scotland, who continue to be supportive, the company said.

The shares hit a new 52-week low on the profit warning, slumping to 1.71p at one point, before recovering to 3.25p, down 1.125p on the day.

--

jh