Halfords sees sales decline

6th Oct 2011 07:19

Halfords, the leisure, cycling and automotive specialist, has seen sales at its retail operations drop 2.8% on a like-for-like basis in its second quarter.The like-for-like drop is almost matched by a 2% decline in total sales.However, Halford's Autocentres, the car servicing arm of the company saw like for like sales grow of 3.1%.The chief executive of the firm, David Wild commented:"The tough consumer environment which particularly affects motorists is continuing to influence spending patterns."Profit before tax for the first half is expected to be in the range of £53m - £55m with net debt reaching £145m.Outlining future strategy, Wild explained:"We are taking constructive steps to protect our sales and profitability by delivering real value and service to our customers. There are clear signs that this strategy has had a positive impact in our stores through the summer and we are particularly pleased with the growth in cycles and fitting services."BS