Department store Debenhams has posted a rise in Christmas sales over the 19 weeks to 9 January.
Like-for-like sales rose by 1.9%, more than double analysts’ estimates.
Online sales during the Christmas trading season rose 12.1%, which the retailer said was down to increased consumer confidence in its delivery services.
It said that sales had been boosted by a successful Black Friday, and that the Christmas trading week recorded record sales.
Five new stores opened on schedule between September and November 2015, in Bradford, Wandsworth, Beverley, Rugby and Newport.
Chief executive, Michael Sharp, said: “This performance is evidence that our strategy is working with our customers finding our mix of products and brands both compelling and great value for money.”
Sharp will be leaving the business later this year.
These strong results highlight Debenhams as a winner in the competitive Christmas trading period, where other fashion retailers including Next have struggled, blaming the mild weather and timing of Black Friday for poor sales.
Click here for a round up of Christmas trading so far.
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