JJB Sports revealed, a week ahead of schedule,a 2% fall in total sales over the crucial Christmas period.
The group, the subject of persistent bid speculation, warned that underlying sales has fallen 1.4% in the six weeks to 2 January, blaming the competitive retail environment.
The company also said it would speed up the opening programme for its combined health club and superstore format, with 18 new units planned next year.
References: Financial Times Money & Business 08/01/05 page M3, The Times Business 08/01/05 page 55, The Guardian 08/01/05 page 26, The Independent 08/01/05 page 50
