Sainsburys clothing sales rise in 'challenging' market

Total retail sales at J Sainsbury were up 1.2 percent (excl. fuel) and like-for-like sales rose 1.1 percent (excl. fuel) for the third quarter to January 6, 2018. The company said general merchandise and clothing outperformed the market in challenging conditions with clothing sales rising 1 percent during the quarter.

Commenting on the third quarter update, Mike Coupe, Group Chief Executive Officer, said in a statement: "We had a strong Christmas week, with record sales. General Merchandise and clothing grew market share in a challenging market."

The company expects full year underlying profit before tax now to be moderately ahead of published consensus.

Picture:J Sainsbury website