Owner of Currys, DSG International plc, has posted better-than-expected 24 week results.

DSG International, owner of Currys and PC World, has posted its latest financial results showing a smaller-than-predicted loss in the 24 weeks to 17 October.

Group like for like sales were down 4% over the six months, but had increased by 1% in the last eight weeks. The boost in sales has been attributed to the highly-anticipated launch of Microsoft’s new operating system, Windows 7.

DSG’s interim results posted today (26 November) show that the retailer made an underlying pre-tax loss of £17.6 million, marginally less than the £17.7m loss the retailer posted in 2008/2009. The company had originally predicted a loss of £23m to £35m in the 24 weeks.

According to the electronics retailer, sales are improving in the UK and Ireland electrical units, as well as in Italy and online. Sales in UK computing also experienced a significant improvement due to the Windows 7 launch.

John Browett, Chief Executive of DSG International plc, said: “We have seen improving trends in a number of our businesses, particularly in recent weeks.

“While we are cautious about the outlook for 2010, we are well-positioned as we enter into Peak trading with compelling offers customers.”

DSG’s Renewal and Transformation plan has also had some effect on the company’s finances. 162 stores have been reformatted in the UK and the Nordics in time for the peak Christmas shopping season.

The nine new format stores, incorporating Currys Megastores and combined PC World and Currys stores, have delivered average gross profit uplifts of 57%.

The retailer has also maintained its cost reduction plan to save the firm £50m this year as part of a £200m cost reduction plan over the next four years.