Pre-close Statement

3 Aug 2005 07:00

Moss Bros Group PLC03 August 2005 PRE-CLOSE STATEMENT Moss Bros Group Plc, the UK menswear retailer, today reports on trading ahead ofentering a close period for the half year ended 30 July 2005. • Like for like sales for the 26 weeks are up 3% on last year. • Total gross cash margin for the half is up 4% like for like, grossmargin percentage is in excess of 52.5% against 52.1% last year. • Operating costs for the half are expected to be around 2% up onlast year. • Company profit on ordinary activities, before taxation, for thehalf is expected to be not less than £1.4m (2004 first half: £0.7m). Philip Mountford, Chief Executive, commented: "The Company has reacted well to the challenges faced during the first half andcontinues to make progress despite difficult trading conditions. It is encouraging that sales and gross margin have shown steady growth. The lastnine weeks of the half are a critical trading period with like for like sales inJune up 5% on last year. Sales in July were flat against last year like forlike, with a 6% decline in sales in Central London offset by growth across therest of the country. The Moss chain is showing good growth in market share, customers have reactedpositively to the new stores opened. The Board expects market conditions to remain difficult but is confident thatthe Company will continue to perform well." The announcement of the Company's half year results will be made on 13 October2005. For further information: Moss Bros Group Plc 020 7447 7200Philip MountfordRoddy Murray This information is provided by RNS The company news service from the London Stock Exchange