River Island has opened a new concept store in Reading (pictured), with a loft-style interior featuring exposed brick and concrete floors.

Its fascia is a move away from its black background and white writing with its name picked out in lights in cut out letters.

The fashion retailer’s pre-tax profits fell 14% in the year to December 26, 2009, as it invested in developing its online presence, stores and supply chain. Sales at the Lewis family owned business grew 7.9% to £826.4m.