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Tuesday 08 August, 2006

Moss Bros Group

Pre-close Statement

Moss Bros Group PLC
08 August 2006


                              MOSS BROS GROUP PLC
                              Pre-close statement


Moss Bros Group Plc, the UK men's fashion retailer, today reports on trading
ahead of entering a close period for the half year ending 29 July 2006.

In line with general trends experienced in the menswear retail sector, the first
six months of the year were challenging; and were particularly affected by
unusual weather conditions and the Football World Cup.

Sales for the 26 weeks increased by 1.6% on last year but like for like sales
were down -0.75%. The fall in like for like sales followed seven consecutive
half year periods of like for like sales growth. Retail gross profit margin for
the half was up +0.3% to 53.4%

Due to significant increases in property and utility costs, fixed costs were up
6.6% lfl. Controllable costs were down 0.1% lfl. The increase in fixed costs has
a disproportionately larger effect on the profits for the first half of the year
which has significantly lower sales than the second half.

The average cash balance increased by £1.6 million from £6.8 million to £8.4
million. The closing cash balance was £10.5million. After adjusting for new
stores the stock was level on last year and the stock age profile has not
deteriorated.

Philip Mountford, Chief Executive, commented:

'The Company has reacted well to the challenging retail environment, but the
effect of the World Cup and the unusual weather has impacted on trading
throughout June and July. Prior to the World Cup, the business achieved positive
comparable sales of +1.6%. The World Cup cost the business £1.1 million in lost
sales.

The management expects that the Company will have a stronger second half and
remains focused on continuing to expand the core Moss fascia. Nine new stores
were opened during the first half and initial performance is encouraging.'

The announcement of the Company's half-year results will be made on 12th October
2006.


For further information:

Philip Mountford
Chief Executive

Andrew Barclay
Head of Marketing

020 7447 7394



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