18.02.10
Last month, Thorntons reported a descent in sales over the Christmas period, which were down 2.4% in the 14 weeks to January 9, compared with the same interval 12 months ago.
But the firm said that although it was disappointed sales had dropped in its own stores, all-inclusive it was satisfied with performance.
In its latest results, sales at its stores hew down 4.4% in the second quarter.
But the firm said because of its resolve not to cut prices, the group managed to grow online sales by 11.5% as corporate question showed signs of recovery.
Thorntons' commercial sales to retailers also advanced by 6.5% undeterred by the loss of business from failed high-street icon Woolworths.
However, trading was dented by the application of the Birthdays greeting card chain in May last year, which was a guy and franchise partner of the group.
Thorntons lost 94 stores as a conclusion of the administration, with franchise sales down 17% to £8.2m as a issue.
Source: Derby Evening Telegraph