JD Sports warns on profits as it flags weakening consumer backdrop

JD Sports Fashion has delivered a steady third quarter, but warned its full-year profits will be at the lower end of forecasts due to slowing consumer demand across key markets.
The group reported a 1.7% drop in like-for-like sales for the 13 weeks to 1 November, although total sales rose 8.1% at constant currency.
In particular, apparel continued to perform well, while footwear remained subdued, particularly in product lines reaching the end of their cycle.
However, the UK remained challenging,