Rough Trade Counters HMV With Christmas Sales Boost

Sales at the independent music retailer Rough Trade rose by 5% over the Christmas period, the company has said.

The announcement comes on the same day High Street retailer HMV said its sales had fallen over the same period.

Retail director Stephen Godfroy said Rough Trade's festive surge came despite adverse weather conditions.

“Such a resilient performance is testament to our continually evolving and inspiring destination store appeal,” he told Music Week.

Godfroy also highlighted how the indie store's sales had climbed over Christmas, while HMV's had fallen.

“Crazy snow didn't help either of us,” he added.

Earlier, HMV said its weaker than expected profits had been caused by the severe weather across the UK and “challenging trading conditions”.

The retailer has outlined proposals to close 40 stores, as well as a further 20 Waterstones.

MORE: Music Fans 'Not Surprised' By HMV Store Closures.