Mothercare lifts Storehouse

A strong performance from the Mothercare chain of children's shops has boosted profits at Storehouse, the BhS retail group. Mothercare profits jumped 120 per cent to pounds 9.3m in the six months to October, helped by better stock control and fewer discounts. Profits at BhS also improved, though sales were affected by the heatwave. Group profits were up 42 per cent to pounds 34.5m.

Investment Column, page 26