The PEP and Ackermans clothing brands owner said group revenue rose to 26 billion rand ($1.38 billion) in the three months to Dec. 31, its fiscal first quarter.

Group merchandise sales increased by 5.5% and like-for-like sales rose by 4.1%.

Sales benefited from new store openings and demand for baby, younger children's and school clothing as well as adult wear. The tech division maintained sales levels amid a generally weak durables market, Pepkor said.

Pepkor, which also has operations in the rest of Africa and Brazil, said the significant disruption to port operations it reported in November continues to have a negative impact on stock inflows.

"The group's merchandise and logistics teams have been proactive in addressing delays and implementing solutions to expedite and advance stock inflows," the retailer added.

The challenging backdrop has also hit upmarket rivals Truworths, TFG and Woolworths and discounter Mr Price.

South African state-owned logistics company Transnet has said backlogs at ports were due to factors including adverse weather and under-investment in equipment and maintenance.

($1 = 18.8799 rand)

(Reporting by Nqobile Dludla; Editing by Kirsten Donovan)