British retail giant hit by 'sluggish' clothing sales

BRITISH retailer Marks & Spencer, which has branches in Dublin and Cork, has suffered "sluggish" clothing sales in the run-up to Christmas, it was reported yesterday.

The Independent on Sunday said Marks & Spencer's sales of both men's and women's clothes were down and cited sources with access to the company's numbers. However, the company would not comment on the claims, the Independent said. Poorer than expected sales in women's fashion have left the company with too much stock, according to the Independent report.

Sales of men's clothing were lower than expected in October and November, while on target during December.Food sales are "on track," the newspaper said.