BSR Group general manager Ian Brown said that, following a flat March, national like-for-like sales in April were significantly up on those of a year ago.
Not a bad result when you consider the higher interest rates and rising fuel and grocery prices that are currently curbing retail spending.
“Overall, Betta Electrical stores are riding out these tough conditions and some regions continued to demonstrate exceptional sales growth,” said Brown.
NSW and WA had the best results, while product categories such as portable IT, communications and computing had continued to perform well.
Brown attributed the resilience of the group to Betta Electrical’s unique position in sub- metro and regional markets. Innovative marketing campaigns and promotions including traditional bonuses, such as gifts with purchase, had also helped provide a solid foundation for the brand by building on strong customer loyalty, he said.
The launch of the Betta Electrical Gift Card program at Christmas 2007, via the highly visible ‘Three Wise Men’ television commercial, had also proved a great success for the Group and was again performing well during the lead up to Mother’s Day.