Darty delivers despite Paris effect

French electrical retailer Darty reported strong sales at home and in Belgium over the Christmas period.

Darty, which agreed a takeover by its rival FNAC in November but may not see the deal complete until the end of 2016, said its market outperformance in France had continued with like-for-like sales up 4.4% in the period from 1 November to 31 January.

LFL sales in Belgium and the Netherlands were down 3.8% as despite positive LFLs in Belgium, Netherlands was dented by a new warehouse IT system, the effect of which lessened towards the end of the period.

Total group revenue was up 2.6% and up 4.0% excluding Mistergooddeal.com, with web-generated sales continued to grow, up 12% excluding Mistergooddeal.com, now representing 16% of total product sales.

"Despite events in Paris we performed well over Christmas and the winter sale period with a competitive offer and good product availability," said chief executive Régis Schultz.

He said the Group was moving "at pace" on its 'Confiance 4.0' plan with continuation of our multi-channel and franchise growth, cost initiatives and an improving cash position.

Shares in Darty were up 8% to 107.25p.