In an interim management statement released on Friday ahead of its AGM, the company said that HMV UK & Ireland had achieved like-for-like sales growth of 4.3 percent during the 18 weeks ended August 30, 2008.
The company attributed the growth to ‘strategic initiatives to increase the mix of games and technology’.
Amongst its operational highlights for the period HMV listed the opening of its largest ‘next generation’ store to date, a 15,000 sq ft shop in Liverpool.
The company also said that it plans to launch a pilot loyalty card scheme and a pre-played games offer in the UK before the end of 2008.
“In what is, undoubtedly, a tough consumer environment, the solid start made by the group to the new financial year means that our plans are in line with the board’s expectations, and I remain confident that our strategic initiatives are on track,” said HMV chief executive Simon Fox.
“As we approach the peak selling period, our focus is on continuing to provide our customers with the very best offers from what is shaping up to be a strong line-up across all product categories for Christmas.”
HMV’s next trading update will be at the announcement of its interim results on December 11.