Interent sales nearly double
Electricals giant DSGi revealed that group sales were up 14 per cent, with like-for-likes up 4 per cent, in the 52 weeks to April 28. This was despite the mild weather and a poor performance at its Italian division.

Internet like-for-like sales soared 182 per cent and now represent 10 per cent of sales, up from 3 per cent the previous year.

The retailer said that Currys delivered a strong performance, with like-for-like sales at its superstores up 4 per cent for the year. PC World's UK sales rose 6 per cent and like-for-likes were up 4 per cent, helped by strong laptop sales. Overall, sales at the PC World business rose 8 per cent year on year.

In the UK and Ireland, electricals sales rose 2 per cent and like-for-likes were up 3 per cent. The retailer said its UK and Ireland electricals division will show a significant profit growth year on year.

In the 24 weeks to April 28, group sales were up 13 per cent and like-for-likes also rose 3 per cent.

Internet like-for-like sales soared 182 per cent and now represent 10 per cent of sales, up from 3 per cent the previous year.

DSGi group chief executive John Clare said: 'I am pleased with the performance. Our new e-commerce division has seen strong growth. We expect to deliver underlying operating profit for the year in line with market expectations.'

However, the company said that sales in its UniEuro division in Italy were down 1 per cent for the year and like-for-likes fell 8 per cent, following significant operational issues. The group said: 'We are determined to return UniEuro to profitability and remain confident in its long-term prospects.'

The retailer incurred restructuring and impairment costs of up to£200 million during the year, relating to the impairment of its Italian operations, the planned closure of PC City France and the sale of Genesis Communications. However, international sales as a whole climbed 30 per cent for the year and now represent 41 per cent of group sales.

In the 24 weeks to April 28, group sales were up 13 per cent and like-for-likes also rose 3 per cent.