The past 20 weeks have been tough on David Jones

David Jones sales have fallen 5.3% in the last 20 weeks.

In a trading update from parent company Woolworths, it was revealed comparable-store sales fell 5.2% over the period.

The fall was attributed to reduced promotional activity, with reduced discounting and a later of end-of-season winter sale.

"Key concession brands also reduced tactical campaign activity in David Jones to reduce discounting," Woolworths said.

Disruption from flagship store refurbishments and a new inventory management system were also blamed.

Country Road Group, also owned by Woolworths, tracked stronger with sales increasing 8.3% over the period.

While same store sales declined 0.4%, its new acquisition Politix performed stronger.

"We opened eight new Politix locations within David Jones stores and are seeing positive results from this initiative," Woolworths said.