DSG international has reported a rise in total sales of four per cent in the full year ended 1 May, like for like sales also increased by two per cent in the period.

Total sales in DSGi's British and Irish stores fell by five per cent, while like for like sales dropped three per cent. However the drop was more than offset by a rise in total sales in DSGi's Nordic businesses of 29 per cent and an increase in like for like sales of 13 per cent.

Other international total sales fell one per cent but were flat on a like for like basis. E-commerce total sales were up 14 per cent while like for like sales increased 11 per cent.

The group made progress throughout the year with total group sales up in the second half by eight per cent and like for like sales up six per cent.

DSGi said that it expected full year pre-tax profit to be in line with market expectations at around £80 million to £90 million. In addition the group said that it had delivered £50 million in cost savings as part of its four year £200 million savings programme.

The group said that all new format stores were delivering "consistent gross profit uplifts", in particular at its Megastores and 2-in-1 stores.

John Browett, Chief Executive of DSGi, said, "Customers continue to respond well to our unwavering focus on Value, Choice and Service. We are focused on moving all our businesses forward against a challenging backdrop, delivering a good sales uplift and margin performance.

"Whilst we remain cautious about the consumer environment for 2010, we are looking forward to the opportunities offered by this year's World Cup, with a strong line-up of products and compelling offers in place. Throughout the year ahead we will continue to drive change through our Renewal & Transformation Plan, delivering a better shopping trip for customers and stronger business performance for shareholders."

By 10:30 shares in DSGi were down 4.77 per cent on the FTSE 250 to 28.56 pence per share.