Matalan Sees Boosts From Promotions

Discount retailer Matalan has seen a boost to its sales by promotions and store refits. The benefits of investment in price cuts and promotions have reversed its sales decline and launching a programme of store refurbishments has seen a positive response from consumers.

The value clothing and homeware retailer, which saw a 6.5 per cent decline in like-for-like sales across the year to February 28, said like-for-likes have grown by 4.1 per cent across the 18 weeks to July 3. Total volume growth across the 18 weeks was 12.4 per cent, but average selling price declined by 8.3 per cent, reflecting deflation across much of the UK retail clothing second as well as Matalan's investment in price cuts and promotions to clear surplus stock. Turnover grew by 13.7 per cent.

Chief executive John King said: "We are starting to see the results of delivering better value to our customers through lower prices, better promotions, improved quality and greater choice. We still have much to do and our focus over the next two months is on successfully closing out the Spring/Summer season and on launching our new Autumn/Winter ranges."

The company said ladieswear, childrenswear and homeware "have all progressed well and we have started to take action to address the disappointing performance of menswear".