SYDNEY: David Jones recorded better than expected sales over the month of April - but this was not enough to stunt a $42 million decline in sales revenue for the third quarter.
The department store reported sales revenue of $411.6 million for the period 25 January to April 25, 2009. This represented a sales decline of 9.2 per cent on the same period last year, when it generated $453.3 million.
Chief executive Mark McInnes said the department store planned to capitalise on stronger trade over April.
"Our performance is interesting in that we experienced significant improvement in sales in April despite February and March trading in line with our guidance. We are well prepared in terms of marketing, promotional activity and service levels to fully capitalise on the situation."
This would include promotions across Mother's Day, its annual 'May Event' and Half Year Clearance.
McInnes said the company was on track to deliver 0 - 5 per cent profit after tax growth for the 2009 financial year.