Retailer Blames Tough Trading Environment for Lowered Expectations
- Moss Bros issues profit warning due to drop in Christmas sales and footfall
- Like-for-like store sales declined by 8% during December
- Online sales increased by 12.3% between August and November
- Full year profits expected to be between £6.5m and £6.8m, below market expectations
Menswear retailer Moss Bros has issued a profit warning due to disappointing performance during the crucial Christmas trading period, with like-for-like store sales plunging by 8% and footfall dropping significantly. Despite a 12.3% increase in online sales between August and November, the company now expects full-year profits to be between £6.5m and £6.8m, below market expectations. CEO Brian Brick attributed the decline to a challenging December trading environment and a desire to protect margins.
Factuality Level: 7
Factuality Justification: The article provides accurate and objective information about Moss Bros’ performance during the Christmas period, including specific sales figures and the CEO’s comments on the situation. However, it lacks some context or comparison to previous years’ performances for better understanding of the company’s situation.
Noise Level: 3
Noise Justification: The article provides relevant information about Moss Bros’ performance during the Christmas period and its impact on profit forecasts. It includes quotes from the CEO to provide context and insight into the situation. However, it does not delve too deeply into long-term trends or possibilities, nor does it hold powerful people accountable or explore consequences for those bearing risks.
Financial Relevance: Yes
Financial Markets Impacted: Moss Bros (retailer’s) stock price and other retailers in the UK market
Financial Rating Justification: The article discusses a company’s disappointing performance during the Christmas period, which affects its profit forecast and may impact the stock price of Moss Bros. It also mentions the overall trading environment on the high street, which can affect other retailers in the UK market.
Presence Of Extreme Event: No
Nature Of Extreme Event: No
Impact Rating Of The Extreme Event: No
Extreme Rating Justification: There is no extreme event mentioned in the article.
