JJB Sports said on Tuesday that its group revenue fell by 8.3 per cent in the first quarter of 2008, compared with the same period in the previous year.

On a like for like basis total revenue fell 5.3 per cent after a 6.5 per cent fall in revenue from retail stores, but a 5.0 per cent rise at its health clubs.

JJB said that its combined gross margin was 100 basis points higher than the previous year.

The sports retailer said that it was confident of its strategy despite the challenging retail environment. JJB also confirmed the completion of its recent store closure programme, in which 72 stores were closed.

Down