Debenhams has issued a trading update for the 15 weeks and the 41 weeks to 13th June 2015, and confirms the business is on track to meet full-year market expectations.
Group gross transaction value was up 0.4% for the 15 weeks, and 1.7% for the 41 weeks, while like-for-like sales remained unchanged for the 15 weeks, and up 0.9% for the 41 weeks. Online sales were up 16.7% over the 15 weeks, and up 13.9% over the 41 weeks 13.9%, as Debenhams' service offer improvements gained traction. Five new stores are on track to open this autumn, in Bradford, Wandsworth, Rugby, Beverley and Newport.
Chief executive Michael Sharp comments: "We have made good progress on our strategic priorities, and remain on track to deliver results in line with market expectations. During this period we have continued to focus our promotional activity around the events Debenhams is famous for: we have made further improvements to our multichannel proposition, including more competitive delivery charges; we have commenced further space trials with a number of exciting new partnerships; and have seen continued progress in our international operations, with another strong performance from Magasin.
"Our customers tell us that, whilst they recognise the improving economic background, they remain cautious in their spending. Our wide product choice, clear destination departments and improving service proposition gives us a strong platform from which to deliver long-term sustainable growth."
