UPDATE: Kathmandu slows pace of store openings after first-half loss

UPDATE: Kathmandu slows pace of store openings after first-half loss
(Adds CEO comments from conference call, analyst profit forecasts, updates shares) By Tina Morrison March 24 (BusinessDesk) - Kathmandu Holdings, which operates 157 outdoor clothing and equipment outlets, is pulling back the pace of new store openings after aggressive price discounting slashed its margin in Australia and resulted in a first-half loss. The Christchurch-based retailer posted a loss of $1.8 million, or 0.9 cents a share,  in the six months ended Jan. 31, from a profit of $11.4 million, or 5.6 cents a share, a year earlier...