Strong food sales have helped Marks and Spencer (M&S) deliver robust results in the final quarter of 2011 despite a slump in sales of clothing and other goods.
UK like-for-like sales of general merchandise fell by 0.8 per cent in the 13 weeks to December 31, while like for like food sales increased by 3 per cent, leading to overall growth in sales of 0.5 per cent for stores open more than a year.
Chief executive Mark Bolland said Marks and Spencer performed well in a challenging trading environment.
“Our Food business performed very strongly as customers enjoyed our new and traditional Christmas products,' he said. 'This unique offer, coupled with our great deals, gave them more choice than ever before for a special Christmas at home.'
The retailer's website and delivery service Direct enjoyed a 22.4 per cent rise in sales.
Ina statement, Marks & Spencer said: 'We made it even more convenient for our customers to shop with us through the Extension of the next day delivery deadline and the launch of our Christmas Food to Order service on-line, which contributed to a 12 per cent increase in orders.'
Inlight of the 'ongoing macro-economic uncertainty', Marks and Spencer said it expects trading conditions to remain challenging.
'We continue to be cautious about the outlook for the year ahead. Our focus will be on offering our customers great value and quality at a time whenthey are managing their budgets carefully.'
The retailer's expectations for full year profit remain unchanged.
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