Fashion retailer French Connection said that first half profit will be in line with management expectations.

The retailer said it achieved “growth in like-for-like sales in our UK stores despite the difficult market conditions”.

Net cash at the end of the period was about £30.5m, which was “ahead of expectations”.

French Connection said it “approaches the important winter season with confidence”.

The retailer will reveal its half-year results for the six months to July 31 next month.