Online growing up fast
Mothercare has revealed pre-tax profits before exceptionals of£21.3 million, an increase of 8.7 per cent.

Total UK sales were up 3.4 per cent for the 53 weeks ending April 1. However, like-for-like store sales were down 0.4 per cent, but sales at the Direct in Home online business rose 30.4 per cent to£20.9 million. International like-for-like franchise sales were up 7 per cent, with total revenue up 21.4 per cent to£61.8 million.

Mothercare chief executive Ben Gordon said: 'Our UK business remained resilient in a difficult trading environment, with the Direct business growing rapidly. Our international expansion continues apace, reinforcing the strength of Mothercare as a global brand.'

Mothercare has 266 stores in 37 countries.