SuperGroup plans expansion

SuperGroup, the company behind the Superdry clothing brand, is set to announce another rise in profit and new expansion when it reports half-year results on Thursday.

The retailer, which began as a market stall in the 1980s, has just opened a shop in Westfield, London, and is planning more stores in America, and in the Middle and Far East. It has 50 stores and franchises overseas and more than 60 company-owned shops in Britain. SuperGroup's share price has shot up from £5 when it floated earlier this year to a spectacular £16.20. Some analysts question how long its Superdry, Cult and Breed brands can stay in fashion, but its chief executive and founder, Julian Dunkerton, says he can keep the brand moving – and bring in new ones.

National Express is also due to publish its pre-close trading update on Friday when it will report on its debt reduction plan and its margin recovery. Government cuts in transport have been less than predicted so the business could be in a better shape than originally feared.