Card Factory (LON: CARD) has swung into a loss for the six months to July 31 as sales fell 48.6% to £100.5m.
Despite the loss, which was compared to a £22.2m in the same period a year earlier, the group has said second-half sales are looking positive.
Card Factory will not be providing a forecast for the rest of the year amid the uncertainty of new lockdown fears.
The group saw strong online sales over the holidays Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, and Father’s Day.
Paul Moody, Executive Chairman, commented:
“I am extremely proud of all colleagues working across every part of our business for the significant contribution they have made throughout this period of unprecedented disruption. In particular, for their unrelenting focus in driving the very successful phased store-reopening programme. The combination of our unique customer insight, vertically integrated business model and market leading position continues to ensure that we are well positioned to meet the increased online demand, supply our commercial partners and to present the optimum ranges in our stores.”
“We are pleased with both the trading performance as our stores have reopened and the positive feedback from customers who are visiting less frequently, but spending more. Recognising the uncertainty of the impact of further Covid-19 measures and changes in consumer behaviour in the short term, we are focused on a flawless execution of Christmas and the implementation of our refreshed strategy.”
Card Factory shares (LON: CARD) are trading +0.54% at 37,15 (0938GMT).