Instore reports weak sales

Sales at discount retailer Instore fell during the 26 weeks to August 27. Like-for-like sales dropped by 2.6 per cent and the group reported an operating loss, before exceptional items, of£4 million against£2.9 million last year.

Instore chairman Christo Wiese said: 'Our recent performance has benefited from the substantial investment in improved distribution facilities. I am confident that this will continue to stand us in good stead in the run-up to Christmas, our peak trading period.'

The performance was hampered by costs related to a new distribution centre move. However, the retailer was optimistic and Wiese added: 'The outcome for the year will depend, as always, on our November/December trading performance.'