Sports Direct has defended its decision to push prices up on sports equipment by stating it's helping to relieve the pressure caused by staff shortages.
The company, owned by billionaire Mike Ashley, said that the affected products had previously been heavily discounted and were still being sold for less than their recommended retail price.
It comes after the retailer faced backlash from shoppers, workers and MPs for refusing to close its doors, despite Government orders.
Chris Wootton, the group’s chief financial officer, said the price rises were partly intended to suppress a jump in demand for fitness equipment. “There is a supply and demand piece to this . . .