U.K. sporting goods retailer JJB Sports Plc reported a 5.3% comp sales decline for the first quarter, with comps at JJB's retail stores down 6.5% in the 13 weeks ended April 27 and revenue at its health clubs up 5.0%.  Gross margin during the period was up one percentage point.  JJB also said it had completed its store closure program, shuttering 72 doors.


Roger Lane-Smith, JJB's chairman, said: “Whilst the retail environment remains very challenging, we have taken significant action to strengthen our store portfolio and continue to invest to improve the quality of our stores and product. Our health club division continues to perform well.”