UK retail sales rose by 0.7 per cent in March. The lift compares with a 0.3 percent gain in February (revised down from a previous growth figure of 0.5 percent) and a 1.7 percent fall in January. Compared to March 2005, total sales were 2.5 percent higher last month, after adjustment for this year's late Easter.
The weak January performance meant that on a quarterly basis, the first three months of 2006 saw retail sales 0.7 percent down against the final quarter of 2005.
Clothing, fashion and personal care
Ann Summers has reported a rise in profit of 27 percent from £2.2 million to £2.8 million in the year to June 2005. Although chief executive Jacqueline Gold said that high-street conditions were difficult, she stated that the company's "unique" position helped to maintain growth.
An increase in sales of "saucy outfits", which rose 60 percent last year, have been cited as one factor behind the profits boost.
The recent decision by the EU to impose anti-dumping tariffs against leather shoes from China and Vietnam has produced a policy with a confusing loophole.
The measures propose an increase in import duty to 16.8 percent by October; however the hike will not be applied to children's shoes of size 37.5 and below.
Shoe retailers are now expected to redefine a greater number of shoes as being for children, and to also stock children's shoes designs which appeal to adults.
Imports of hi-tech leather sportsshoes will also be spared the duty increase, even though they account for a significant proportion of Asian shoe exports to the EU.
marketing@alchempro.com
