Not so super for fashion trendsetters

The firm said that it did not get its full range of summer stock into stores in time to catch the recent hot spell.

It opened only one store in the past quarter compared with six this time last year, which also had an impact.

The group, which is best known for its fashionable Superdry and SurfCo California brands, still increased sales by 61 per cent to 66 million in the quarter to 1 May, but this is well below the 87 per cent rise seen in the previous three months. Wholesale trade grew by 89 per cent to 34m, but retail sales growth was just 39 per cent at 32m, compared to a 92 per cent rise in the three months to January.

SuperGroup opened 65 stores worldwide during the year and for the 12 months to May total sales rose to 238m from 139m. Both wholesale and retail arms saw sales rise by 71 per cent.

Chief executive Julian Dunkerton said the supply issues have now been addressed and the group is ready for an accelerated roll-out of the franchise.