Growth slows at Monsoon

Monsoon said like-for-like sales in the 17 weeks to September 24 were up 8 per cent. However, the figures mask a slowdown in recent weeks, with like-for-like sales growth falling from 16 per cent to just 3 per cent in the 10 weeks to September 24.

Monsoon group chairman Peter Simon said: 'While we are confident in the strength of Monsoon's products and brands, it was inevitable that we would begin to notice the effects of the slowdown on the UK high street.'

The company has expanded its store estate dramatically this year, which was reflected in total sales figures up 39 per cent for the 17 weeks to September 24.

Simon added: 'The outlook in the run-up to the key Christmas period is uncertain.'

There are more than 300 Monsoon and Accessorize stores throughout the UK and the Republic of Ireland.