16 Dec 2010 07:00
LAURA ASHLEY HOLDINGS PLC
Interim Management Statement
16 December 2010
Laura Ashley Holdings Plc announces its Interim Management Statement for the 19 weeks to 11 December 2010.
In the first 19 weeks of the second half to 11 December 2010, total UK retail sales increased by 1.3% year-on-year (like-for-like sales increased by 2.7%). We have opened 2 new stores and closed 12 this year and continue to streamline our store portfolio in an effort to optimise profitability.
Although we are experiencing slower LFL growth in the second half due to the impact of a sluggish economy and adverse weather conditions, the underlying LFL sales growth for the year to date is 4.6%.
In the same reporting period, the E-Commerce channel recorded growth of 28.7% as we continue to enhance and improve our online presence.
Despite the current economic uncertainty and adverse weather conditions in the UK, we remain confident that full year trading will be ahead of the Board's expectations.
Enquiries:
Tom Buchanan / James Olley Brunswick 0207 404 5959
Seán Anglim Laura Ashley 0207 880 5100