Mothercare’s acquisition of Early Learning Centre (ELC) helped push group sales up 38.3 per cent in the 13 weeks to October 13, exceeding City expectations.

Chief executive Ben Gordon said: “The past few years of work are beginning to pay off. Our focus after Christmas will be how we can further incorporate the ELC brand.”

Gordon also intends to open at least 50 stores outside the UK every year for the foreseeable future. Kaupthing analyst Matthew McEachran believes that Mothercare’s joint venture in China with Goodbaby group could create the potential for up to 2,000 stores there. “This is a rare and compelling global growth play,” he said.

The mother and baby retailer launched a social networking site this week, as revealed exclusively by Retail Week (September 28).

Gurgle.com offers users 1,000 articles and 52 videos, along with a host of baby and pregnancy tools and advice, which the retailer hopes will build stronger relationships with customers.

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