British retailer Blacks Leisure Group Plc reported comp sales declined 5.4% for the 19 week period ended July 12, but said its cost-cutting initiatives remained on track.


For the 19 week period, the company said its same-store sales declined 2.2% in its outdoor business and 15.5% in its surf, or boardwear,  business.


The company said it had cut costs by £2.4 million during the period, making considerable progress toward its goal of £3 million for the year. Inventory declined by 12.4%.


Same-store sales for July were running 6.1% ahead of the same time a year ago thanks to the resumption of warmer weather and the camping season.


The company is scheduled to release a financial report Saturday in conjunction with its annual shareholder meeting.


The disclosure comes as the company overhauls its merchandising and store layouts to reflect the growing fashion component of outdoor and action sports brands. Blacks Leisure has said it will buy 15% fewer lines for fall as it overhauls its Millets and Blacks outdoor chains and Free Spirit action sports chain.

Black Leisure also owns the Mambo surf brand and exclusive rights to distribute the O’Neill surf brand in the UK.