Sports Direct International Plc reported earnings results for the nine weeks ended March 31, 2013. Group total sales for the nine weeks ended March 31, 2013 were up 14.3% to £317.4 million against £277.8 million a year ago and gross profit was up 22.7% to £128.6 million against £104.8 million a year ago. The company is certain of reaching its full year ending April 28, 2013 targeted underlying EBITDA of £270 million (before the charge for the bonus share schemes).

JD Sports Fashion plc (LSE:JD.) and Sports Direct International Plc (LSE:SPD) are looking at placing bids to acquire Americana International Limited for up to £100 million. The bidders are expected to be joined by private equity firms. April 30, 2013 is the last date for placing bids. HgCapital intends to divest Americana and has retained Canaccord Genuity Hawkpoint for the process.

Debenhams plc is understood to be interested in acquiring a list of the stores from House of Fraser, Ltd., if the business is to be broken up. There are market rumors that retailers have looked at buying some or all of the 63 stores of House of Fraser. It is also believed that Mike Ashley, Owner of Sports Direct International Plc has also considered buying the chain. JOHN Lewis also held talks with House of Fraser about buying it in 2012 but decided not to proceed, sources have told Financial Mail. House of Fraser was not available for comment to Mail On Sunday.