Primark like-for-like sales hit by ‘unseasonable’ May weather

Sales at Primark in the year-to-date were 4% ahead of last year, driven by an increased store portfolio, however this was partially offset by a decline in like-for-like sales.

The budget retailer’s parent company AB Foods said its sales were “held back by unseasonable weather in May” but said it had seen an improvement in sales in June.

The sales growth recorded in the first half continued in the third quarter and Primark recorded a further significant increase in market share.

AB Foods said trading at its new stores was “strong” and it had been encouraged by customers’ reaction to the full product range as well as the new food and beverage and beauty services offered in Birmingham High Street.

Overall, the group’s revenue for the 40 weeks ended 22 June 2019 increased 2% year-on-year.

AB Foods said it expected “good profit growth” in Primark for the full year.