Briscoe Group saw unaudited record half-year sales of $372.1 million in the six months ended July 28, up 0.77 per cent from the year-ago period.

“Our online channel continues to perform well also closing with positive sales growth for the first half,” said Rod Duke, MD at Briscoe Group.

“Online sales represent 18.77 per cent of group sales compared to 18.33 per cent at the close of last year’s first half and we continue to improve both the front and back-end operations.”

The company said that while it does not expect its net profit to be above the $42.7 million booked last year, it forecasts it to be in excess of $40 million.

The company anticipates lower gross margin, citing a challenging economic environment impacting consumer confidence and retail spending.

Briscoe Group closed with homeware and sporting goods inventory down 10 per cent on last year.