Jessops reports digital sales dip

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Camera and photographic goods retailer Jessops has warned that it does not expect any growth in like-for-like sales in its first quarter.

The company reported pre-tax profits of £5.9m ($10.2m) in the year to the end of September, up from £1.3m a year ago.

However, total like-for-like sales in the eight weeks to 27 November dropped by 1.2% as digital camera sales waned.

No growth is expected in the first quarter, partly because of a strong comparative performance last year.

"Against this, we expect the first half will benefit from the gross margin improvements achieved during the last financial year," said chief executive Derek Hine.

Leicester-based Jessops, which employs more than 3,000 workers, recently completed its first year as a listed company.

Shares in Jessops were up 1.75 pence, or 2.19%, at 81.75p on Wednesday.