Mothercare upbeat despite sales fall

Babycare retailer Mothercare reported a dip in its sales revival today, but said it remained confident ahead of the key Christmas season.

The group, which operates 11 stores in the Irish Republic, said like-for-like sales in the 13 weeks since July fell 0.2% after a challenging late summer period upset its recent positive sales record.

Mothercare pointed out the result was up against strong figures last year and that sales were now stronger following a warm reception for its winter ranges.

Across the 28 weeks to October 9, Mothercare said like-for-like sales in its UK stores rose 2.4%, with margins remaining healthy.

Mothercare recently returned to the black after benefiting from a turnaround strategy that has now seen 50% of its high street space refitted.

It recently opened its first new store in two years and said today it planned to open two more outlets by the end of the year.

Chief executive Ben Gordon said: “The successful transformation of Mothercare continues, with sales up by almost 9% over a two-year period.

“Our autumn and winter ranges have been well received and we approach the important Christmas season with confidence.”