WLW Woolworths

RNS Number:7088M
Woolworths Group PLC
6 November 2001


6 November 2001

For Immediate Release


                             Woolworths Group plc

                              Trading Statement

Woolworths Group plc announces today its trading performance for the 13 week
period ending 3 November 2001. This announcement is being made in the interest
of full disclosure ahead of the intended issuance of #100 million Senior Notes
due 2006 by Woolworths Group plc. Proceeds from the issuance of the Notes will
repay the #100 million Bridge Facility which, together with the Senior Bank
Facility, financed the de-merger of Woolworths Group plc from Kingfisher plc.


In the 13 week period ending 3 November 2001, Group like for like sales were
up 5.5% and Group total sales were up 10.6% against the 13 week period ending
28 October 2000.


Total sales for the Woolworths Mainchain, big W and General Stores were up
11.6% and on a like for like basis sales were up 5.3%. In the Woolworths
Mainchain like for like sales were up 5.0%. Toys, Home and more recently
Entertainment sales have been strong but due to the mild weather Clothing
sales have been weak.

In the Entertainment businesses, Entertainment UK has increased sales to third
parties by 3.5%; like for like sales for the MVC stores were up 8.8% and VCI
has continued to perform well.

Work on reducing the Group's overstock position is continuing as planned. The
Group remains on target to reduce year-end stocks by #100 million at selling
price compared to last year-end. Through good cash management, peak borrowings
are currently running in excess of #50 million below original expectations.

Commenting on the statement, Gerald Corbett, Chairman, said:

"The third quarter has been encouraging but the critical Christmas trading
period still lies ahead. Clearing up the stock and reducing shrinkage remain
priorities and these will keep margins under pressure."

The Group intends to make a Christmas trading statement on 17 January 2002 and
to announce preliminary financial results for the full year on 27 March 2002.

For further information please contact:

Woolworths Group plc:-

Christopher Rogers, Finance Director     020 7706 5883

Helen Rayner, Corporate Affairs     020 7706 5689 / 07710 269019


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