Business and retail news :Groupe Go Sport Reports Comps Rose 4.9 Percent in Third Quarter

French retailing giant Rallye reported sales at its Groupe Go Sport business, which operates one of the largest chains of sporting goods stores in France, reached €189.2 million ($237 mm). Same store sales rose 4.9 percent  in currency-neutral (c-n) terms.

In France, third quarter sales for the GO Sport banner were up 3.6 percent on a same-store basis, benefiting from a strong performance of both seasonal and non-seasonal goods. Another highlight was the launch of the GO Sport franchise in France, with two integrated stores converted into franchisees.

Sales at Courir, a chain of specialty running stores once again recorded solid growth at 8.3 percent on a same-store basis, following a 5.0 percent increase in the first half of the year.
 

In Poland, same-store sales with constant exchange rates rose strongly at 8.5 percent in the third quarter of 2012. Similarly to France, the banner posted strong performance for the back-to-school period and sales of shoes recorded double-digit growth.

 

“Groupe GO Sport remains confident in its ability to maintain a strong commercial dynamic for both banners,” Rallye said in a press releasing announcing the results. “The effective start on July 20, 2012 of Loïc Le Borgne as General Manager for Groupe GO Sport initiates a new phase in group’s recovery, particularly by adopting a more customer-centered strategy and by reinforcing the partnership with brands.”

Goupe Go is controlled by Rallye Group, which operates the Casino convenience store chain and reported sales of $35 billion last year. Rallye guaranteed a $30 million capital raise for Groupe Go Sport in the second quarter. 

( SportsOneSource Media )