In the month of March 2008, sales of H&M in local currencies including VAT increased by 3 per cent compared to March previous year. The late spring in combination with calendar effects have had a negative impact on the sales during the month.
The figure in parenthesis represents the sales development in comparable H&M units. Comparable units mean the stores and the internet and catalogue sales countries that have been in operation for at least a financial year. H&M's financial year extends from 1 December to 30 November.
The number of stores amounted to 1,546 on 31 March 2008 versus 1,386 on 31 March 2007.