RNS Number:2585J
Luminar PLC
21 September 2006

Luminar plc



Pre-close statement



Luminar plc, the largest nightclub operator in the UK, today updates
shareholders, ahead of its close period, on the performance of the Company for
the first six months of the financial year and on the Company's current trading.



Subsequent to the Company's last trading update on 14 July we are pleased to
report that current trading has been in line with our expectations and we have
seen improving trends.  Performance throughout August improved as anticipated
with like for like sales from core businesses down 2.4%.  The recovery in the
like for like sales run rate has been led predominantly by the Dancing Division
with a return to positive like for like sales during August.  For the Company as
a whole, this sales trend has continued into the first 3 weeks of September.



During the whole of the first half to 31 August like for like sales were down
7.5% across our core businesses.  Challenging market conditions affected all
aspects of our businesses and brands, particularly the Entertainment Division
and our units awaiting refurbishment.  During the period gross margins were over
1% ahead of last year's performance.



Management have made good initial progress on driving efficiencies in central
costs following the successful relocation of its Unit Support Centre functions
into Milton Keynes and expect further savings in the second half in line with
the guidance already given.



The Company has continued with its programme for disposal of non-core businesses
with the sale of 8 units since the year end realising #4.6m in cash.  These
transactions were completed in total at book value.



The Board is focused on the strategy of building on its position as the leading
operator of destination branded dancing venues and remains committed to the
disposal of the Entertainment Division to accelerate the transformation of the
Company.



Luminar will report its interim results for the 6 months to 31 August on 15
November 2006.



                                                               21 September 2006


Enquiries

Luminar plc
Stephen Thomas, Chief Executive              01908 544110
Nick Beighton, Finance Director              01908 544115

College Hill
Matthew Smallwood                            020 7457 2020






                      This information is provided by RNS
            The company news service from the London Stock Exchange
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