French Connection (LON:FCCN) narrowed first-half losses in the second quarter of 2017, following the closure of unsuccessful branches across the U.K.
In the six months to 31 July operating losses stood at at £5.7 million, compared with £7.9 million during the same period last year.
Back in March, the company reported it sixth annual lost amid stiff competition from the high-street such as online retailers Asos (LON:ASC) and Inditex-owned Zara.
Consequently, the high-street chain, which has 349 outlets including Great Plains brands and Toast stores, said it had closed seven locations during the past year.
However, it did confirm the decision to it open a new French Connection location in November in Manchester, as it looks to be more strategical with its retail spaces.
Alongside closing underperforming stores, appointed two new independent directors appease disappointed investors.
Stephen Marks, its chairman and chief executive, had been previously criticised his influence over the board.
“We have definitely seen momentum build in the first half of the new financial year with improvements across all the divisions despite difficult trading conditions,” said Stephen Marks, chairman and chief executive.
“With full price sales in retail up during the early part of the second half, combined with the strong Winter ’17 order books in wholesale and very strong reaction to the Spring ’18 collection, I am confident that we will see a good performance during the rest of the year.”
Alongside results for the quarter, Board changes were also announced, with non-executive directors Claire Kent and Dean Murray leaving their posts. They are set to be replaced by Sarah Curran and Robin Piggott.
French Connection is tasked with overhauling falling sales in a increasingly difficult retail climate. With rising inflation levels and stagnating wages, UK retail figures have been steadily declining as consumers stick to the necessities.
Shares in French Connection are currently down 0.41 percent as of 10.42AM (GMT).