J Sainsbury Plc has revealed that its profit before tax for the first half decreased to £131 million, a decline from £275 million in the previous year. The earnings per share dropped to 3.2 pence from 6.5 pence. However, the total underlying profit before tax showed a 4.7% increase, reaching £356 million, with underlying earnings per share slightly increasing to 10.6 pence from 10.3 pence.
During the 28 weeks leading up to 14 September 2024, the Group's sales from continuing operations, excluding VAT, rose by 2.3% to £17.20 billion. Similarly, retail sales excluding VAT reached £17.05 billion, also marking a 2.3% increase.
