Pumpkin Patch eyes US gain

Childrens wear retailer Pumpkin Patch expects its US operations to report positive earnings next year, executive chairman Greg Muir says.

"Probably not this financial year but ... definitely next year," Muir said, referring to positive earnings before interest and tax from the group's US business.

Brokers forecast that the group would make a net profit of around $28 million in 2006, despite a generally subdued retail environment in the Australasian market.

Pumpkin Patch shares closed up 10c to $4.20 yesterday.