Thorntons has reported a like-for-like sales decline of 10.6% in its own stores in the eight weeks to June 25.
The chocolatier, which at the end of last month revealed plans to close at least 120 stores and may close a further 60, said own store sales fell 11.9% to £12.8m.
Total sales fell £1.9m to £20.6m. Franchise sales were down 19% to £1.1m, and Thorntons Direct sales were up 10.7% to £0.8m.
For the year to June 25, Thorntons sales were up 1.7% to £218.3m.
The group anticipates pre-tax profit for the full year to be in line with expectations.
Thorntons is considering a provision of around £3.5m in its year to June 25 2011 in relation to stores identified for closure as a result of the strategic review. The charge covers impairment and onerous lease provisions.
Thorntons chief executive Jonathan Hart said: “This eight week periodrepresents less than 10% of our annual sales. As highlighted at the strategic review at the end of June, trading during this period has continued to be challenging, particularly in our own stores and franchises. Whilst commercial sales have only grown slightly they increased by an impressive 25.9% over the full year. We are encouraged by our forward orders for Christmas 2011. Thorntons Direct had a good Fathers Day trading period which contributed to the 10.7% increase in sales.
“We see the weakness in High Street footfall and spending continuing in the new financial year. As a business we are now focusing on the implementation of our transformation plan.Thorntons is a strong brand with excellent potential and I am confident that this strategy of rebalancing the business across all channels will deliver results.”
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