Moss Bros sees double digit sale rise

Menswear retailer Moss Bros has unveiled a double-digit rise in sales as its efforts to turn around its fortunes continue. The suiting and formalwear company said in the 19 weeks to December 10, gross profits were up 7.9% with sales on a same-store

basis rising by 10.5%.

The figures follow the sale of Hugo Boss and Cecil Gee stores in an attempt to focus on the Moss brand.

It used the proceeds to improve Moss Bros stores, improve its online offering and pay off debts.

The retailer said costs continued to be tightly managed. It also said that its new pilot shop, which opened in Canary Wharf in May, "continues to trade well".

The shop combines the firm's hire, bespoke and retail businesses under one roof.

Further stores have opened in recent weeks in Liffey Valley, Meadowhall and Bluewater.

Chief executive Brian Brick said: "We are encouraged by the sales
momentum throughout the business."

Image: Moss Bross