Downer positive about Borders' UK like-for-likes

Borders UK managing director Philip Downer said he is 'very comfortable' with like-for-like sales performance at Christmas.

The bookseller's US parent, Borders Inc does not give a breakdown of UK sales, but Downer said his business's performance reflected that of other retailers. There was a sales surge from late December.

Borders UK, which opened eight shops this year, comprises 75 per cent of Borders' international division. It has 61 Borders and Books etc outlets International sales increased by 28.2 per cent year on year between October 27 and January 11. Borders UK will open four or five stores this year, Downer said.