| | Debenhams plc , the leading international, multi-channel brand, today announces a trading update for the 52 weeks to 31 August 2013 ahead of its full year results on 24 October 2013.
Highlights
· Growth in gross transaction value and like-for-like sales over the year including good progress in the last 10 weeks
· Ongoing gains in market share in clothing and non-clothing categories, including womenswear and beauty
· Online sales up 46.2% with 50bps increase in online market share
· Oxford Street flagship transformation on time and on budget
· Modernised stores performing well, 12 completed during the year
· Good international performance in the second half, especially from Magasin du Nord
· Profit before tax anticipated to be in line with current market expectations
Michael Sharp, Chief Executive of Debenhams, said: "I am pleased with our performance in the final quarter of the year. We have succeeded in growing both like-for-like sales and market share in a competitive market where consumers' disposable income remains under pressure. I am particularly pleased with the growth of our online business.
"While the return to more seasonal weather conditions over the summer has been helpful, the main factor behind this performance has been the relentless focus of everyone at Debenhams on implementing the four pillars of our strategy to create a leading international, multi-channel brand. I'd like to thank all our employees for their hard work over the past year. Looking forward, we are confident in our strategy but are not expecting any rapid recovery in consumer sentiment and the marketplace remains highly competitive." |