
JJB has reported that total revenue for the 24 weeks to July 15 was 3.9 per cent down on the same period last year and includes a like-for-like decrease in revenue of 4.1 per cent.
However, taking out revenue from replica products that were affected by the 2006 World Cup gives an increase in total revenue for the retailer of 1.8 per cent, including a like-for-like increase of 1.4 per cent. Revenue from all other store product categories and JJB’s health clubs for the 24-week trading period has been positive in relation to the comparative period. Revenue from health clubs and indoor soccer centres increased by 20.8 per cent.
JJB has opened four combined health clubs/superstores since January 29 and now trades from 43 health clubs. It plans to open a total of eight combined units this year and 17 combined units in 2008.
The retailer is looking to increase its proportion of own-brand revenues, and since joining JJB as deputy CEO Chris Ronnie, who has responsibility for product development and sourcing, has been undertaking a review of JJB’s existing brand arrangements. The company reports it is currently considering a number of ‘opportunities’.
Says Roger Lane-Smith, JJB’s non-executive chairman: “We have now passed through the trading period which included the very difficult comparatives of the 2006 World Cup. I believe that despite these tough comparatives our trading results have been satisfactory.
“I look forward to what I believe will be a more positive second half of the current accounting year. We will continue to focus on our policies of product differentiation, improving our gross margin and the continuing growth of our Leisure Division to drive and enhance our performance.”