International News - Toys R Us posts overseas rise as US sales slump

Toys R Us posted a rise in second-quarter sales at its international division, including UK stores, but sales in the US were sluggish.

Chief executive John Eyler said: 'We were pleased with the performance of our overall portfolio of businesses during the second quarter.'

Despite the 'ongoing challenges of the external environment', the retailer achieved sales increases at its Babies R Us, Toysrus.com and international businesses.

For the three months to August 2, international sales were up 4.2 per cent, and operating earnings were US$4 million (£2.5 million).

Overall, the retailer narrowed its net loss for the second quarter to US$11 million (£6.9 million) from US$17 million (£10.7 million) last year.