Metro’s net sales were up 2.2% to E15.6bn (£12.7bn) in its first-quarter ended March 31. In local currency, sales came in 2.6% above the prior year level. There was a calendar effect benefit but an EBIT loss of E9m (£7.3m) following a profit of E142m (£115.5m) in the prior year quarter. All banners posted a drop in EBIT except Galeria Kaufhof. Metro’s earnings were impacted by higher expansion costs and expenses to improve customer value.

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