Womenswear retailer Jacques Vert has revealed a 0.8% fall in like-for-like sales for the 22 weeks since the beginning of April, but expects increased pre-tax profits for the full year.

The retailer, which owns brands Jacques Vert, Windsmoor, Planet and Precis, said that stronger full-price sell-through and improved margins meant that full-year results are anticipated to beat market expectations.

Chairman Steve Bodger said: “We have also been encouraged by initial customer reaction to the new Autumn 2009 season collections. While it is still very early in the season, this positive response provides some confidence in the continuing development of our product.”

However he cautioned: “We continue to be mindful of the highly uncertain consumer outlook and will continue to manage costs and cash closel.”y