Alba plc

Interim Management Statement

Alba plc ("the Group") is a leading UK distributor of consumer electrical goods, with a portfolio of brands that includes Alba, Bush and Goodmans 

Overview

This report covers trading from the start of the Group's financial year to date. As anticipated, turnover has reduced as the Company discontinued the activities detailed in the 2008 Annual Report. Stock levels at July 31st 2008 were significantly reduced compared with the same date last year and the Group had net cash of £20.3m (2007: net debt of £59.6m).

UK Consumer Electronics

The general market conditions remain challenging and are likely to continue to be so for the foreseeable future. The Group is considering all options to maximise shareholder returns in this area.

Far East

Progress continues within our medical electronics businesses. Whilst these are still in their embryonic stages, we remain optimistic as to the future potential for these operations.

Management and Board

As announced previously, Paul Cannon will be retiring from the Board at the Group's Annual General Meeting on 23rd September 2008

Current trading and prospects

As stated above, general market conditions have remained challenging in our core UK Consumer Electronics business and a successful result for the year will be dependent upon trading during the all-important Christmas selling period. 

2 September 2008

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