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.
