New Look and Peacocks have provided definitions for their seasonal like-for-like sales figures - a decision that will put pressure on other retailers to follow suit.
Last year, retailers and analysts became concerned about the different ways in which store groups calculate like-for-like figures. The issue climaxed in December when analysts at ING issued a 27-page note urging a common standard for the figures, which can heavily influence share prices.
A spokesman for Peacocks said directors felt it was important that the trading statement was 'as clear as possible'. He added that comparing like-for-likes is like comparing 'apples and pears' unless a standard definition is developed.
New Look managing director Phil Wrigley said the retailer was advised by its financial PR firm, Brunswick, to state how figures are calculated.
Mothercare also provided a clear definition in its trading statement.
However, other retailers have been criticised by analysts for their approach to like-for-like figures. Department store group Beatties, for instance, did not include sales at its Birmingham store, prompting analysts at broker Numis to say they assume numbers are not 'particularly flattering'.
The British Retail Consortium has been contacting leading retailers to ask whether the issue needs to be clarified.
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