JD Group splits into fashion and sports divisions

John David Group has restructured its business into two divisions - sports and fashion.

Sports will comprise JD, First Sport and Size. Fashion takes in Ath-Leisure, Open and AV.

According to JD, the changes will allow increased focus on buying, merchandising and marketing for each division. Chief executive Barry Bown will become managing director for sports and Richard Percival joins from Reebok as managing director of the fashion division. The plc board is unchanged.

Chairman Roger Best said: 'I believe that Barry's team is the best in sport and I am confident that the new fashion team will be the impetus behind our fashion fascia growth plans.'