UK leisure chain reports increase in sales

Car parts and outdoor leisure chain Halfords said its new range of cycles designed by Olympic champion Chris Boardman had helped the group weather the recent rain and floods.

The group said new product launches across cycling, touring and camping - including the tie-up with Mr Boardman – had helped drive 7.2% growth in like-for-like sales over the past three months, albeit at a slower pace than at the beginning of the year.

Halfords saw total sales grow 10.3% in the 15 weeks to July 13, down on the 12.3% reported at the start of its financial year, when like-for-like sales also soared by 9.2%.

Ian McLeod, chief executive of Halfords, said: “Our continued positive sales growth achieved across each of our categories, continues to demonstrate the company’s defensive and resilient qualities.”

Retailers have suffered amid the soggy summer weather and interest rate increases, which have knocked consumer spending confidence.

Yesterday retailer Sports Direct International warned of “exceptionally difficult” trading conditions that was hitting profit growth.

But Halfords said it was “confident” in its growth prospects despite the wider retailing woes.