JD Sports has reported a 19.7% decline in first half profit, with weaker performance in North America weighing on the British sports and fashion retailer.

Profit before tax and adjusting items stood at £282 million for the six months ending August 1, compared with £351 million during the same period a year earlier. Revenue also edged down 0.7% to £5.9 billion.

The company recorded a 3.1% decline in like for like sales during the second quarter, while North American like for like sales fell 6.8%. North America accounts for more than one third of the group’s total sales.

The retailer said its performance was affected by cautious consumer spending, promotional pressure and weaker demand for some footwear brands. It has also faced challenges from changes in its core customer market and ongoing pressure across the sportswear sector.

Despite the weaker first half, JD Sports maintained its full year profit forecast of between £700 million and £800 million for 2026 to 2027. The company had reduced its outlook last month.