British fashion chain French Connection Group Plc, which has a number of branches and franchises in Ireland, said today its full-year profit more than halved and UK/Europe orders for summer 2006 were lower, as it strives to improve its faltering clothing ranges.
French Connection, whose once-controversial "fcuk" brand is now regarded by some analysts as something of a millstone, said the poor result reflected weaker ranges over the last year.
"Strong product design has always been the key to our long-term success, and the performance of our business reflects the strength of our ranges," said chairman Stephen Marks.
"In this regard we have faced some challenges over the past few seasons," he added.
Pre-tax profit came in at £15.7 million pounds (€23.1 million) for the year to January 31st, less than half the £33.7 million chalked up in the 2004/05 financial year.