Mothercare UK sales return to growth
Mothercare, the mother, baby and toddler products retailer, said UK like-for-like (LFL) sales have returned to underlying growth while international progress slowed a touch.
Mothercare, the mother, baby and toddler products retailer, said UK like-for-like (LFL) sales have returned to underlying growth while international progress slowed a touch.
UK LFL sales rose 0.3% for the 13 weeks to October 13th compared to a 3.4% decline in the first quarter. Total UK sales fell 8.3% following the closure of 31 stores nationwide.
Direct in Home returned to growth, up 11% for the second quarter after 0.9% growth during the first quarter.
Subscribe to MoneyWeek
Subscribe to MoneyWeek today and get your first six magazine issues absolutely FREE

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
The group, which has been struggling against a weak retail environment and online competition, said second quarter international retail sales rose 10.8%, down slightly from 11% in the first quarter after adverse currency movements.
"Asia Pacific and the Middle East & Africa continue to perform strongly and at the top end of our expectations while Europe remains weaker, particularly across our Eurozone markets," Mothercare said in a statement.
Chief Executive Simon Calver said the group's strategy outlined in May this year is starting to have a beneficial impact on like-for-like sales, which along with its online business have returned to growth.
"International continues to grow despite difficult trading conditions in the Eurozone and adverse currency movements. We recognise that our most important quarter, which includes Christmas, is still ahead of us. We are confident about delivering against the targets we set out in our three-year plan," he said.
CJ
Get the latest financial news, insights and expert analysis from our award-winning MoneyWeek team, to help you understand what really matters when it comes to your finances.
MoneyWeek is written by a team of experienced and award-winning journalists, plus expert columnists. As well as daily digital news and features, MoneyWeek also publishes a weekly magazine, covering investing and personal finance. From share tips, pensions, gold to practical investment tips - we provide a round-up to help you make money and keep it.
-
How to pay in a cheque
Receiving or writing a cheque has become much less common in recent years as instant bank transfers have grown in popularity. Amid widespread bank branch closures, we explain what to do if you get a cheque, and how you can pay one into your bank account.
-
Crypto assets of seven million UK investors at risk – how to keep yours safe
Cryptocurrency wallet rules make it hard to track down assets after someone has died, even if they leave a will saying who they would like to inherit them