While other general merchandise retailers found the Christmas trading period hard going, local non-food convenience retailer The Original Factory Shop has today posted decent sales growth.
In the five weeks ending January 8th 2012, total sales grew 11 per cent year-on-year and like-for-like (LFL) trading saw a 4.2 per cent rise during the period.
The 174-store operation delivered a strong performance in product categories as varied as toys, clothing, confectionery and personal care during these important festive weeks.
Angela Spindler, CEO of The Original Factory Shop, said: “We had a really good Christmas this year, particularly in women‘s fashion and gift items such as personal care and toys. We saw sales strengthen as December progressed.
“We know our customers love being able to shop locally for the whole family.”
Bedroom and bathroom sales were the star performer of the period, up 26 per cent LFL, and ladieswear saw LFL trading jump ten per cent year-on-year.
The retailer has previously stated that its is looking to build on its recent successes to more than treble its store portfolio in the UK in the coming years, with 400 location identified for further expansion.
Spindler added: “While conditions remain challenging, in 2012 we are more committed than ever to offering our customers fantastic value with quality brands at Factory Shop prices.”
