Next posts improved Christmas trading – but stores continue to suffer

Next, the Enderby-based retail giant, has posted improved sales over the Christmas period, but its High Street stores continue to struggle.

The company said that turnover was up 1.5% between 28 October and 29 December, with a good half-term holiday making up for “disappointing” Novembers sales.

However, sales in store slumped dramatically by almost 10% over the period, offset by a 15% boost in online trade.

Next says it expects its full year profit to £723m, 0.6% lower than its previous guidance of £727m. It will announce its full year results on 21 March.