ASOS has posted a decline in sales after experiencing volatile trading in the four months to 31 December.

Revenue fell by 4% in the period when Russia was excluded.

ASOS said the drop was broadly in line with expectations as a result of challenging trading conditions and the prioritisation of structural profitability improvements and cash generation.

UK sales fell by 8% after the retailer was impacted by Royal Mail strikes and disruption in the delivery market in December. This resulted in earlier cut-off dates for Christmas and New Year deliveries, and ASOS reduced marketing spend in response.  

In contrast, EU sales grew by 6% with trading in the Netherlands and Ireland particularly strong.

Meanwhile sales in the US and rest of the world declined by 2% and 10% respectively.

In its trading statement, the retailer said it is continuing to expect a first half loss but insisted its transformation programme is on track.