UK supermarket operator Morrisons has recorded “strong” results for the Christmas period, with the company’s like for like performance outperforming the majority of the sector during the festive break.

In the six weeks to 3 January like for like sales at the grocery retailer increased by 6.5 per cent compared with the same period a year before.

The company said in a statement that it had traded well through the Christmas period, continuing the strong momentum reported over the last three years.

Morrisons said sales were also aided by falling commodity prices, which had reduced retail price inflation for consumers, and claimed this factor, combined with its fresh and value credentials and a range of promotional offers, had proved very attractive to shoppers.

However, looking further ahead, the retailer said it remained cautious on the outlook for consumer spending and expected the market to “remain challenging”.

Morrisons chairman Sir Ian Gibson said: “Morrisons has had another strong Christmas.

“Once again our distinctive offer, eye-catching promotions and relentless focus on our core strengths of fresh food and great value combined to help customers have a great Christmas.

“This has enabled Morrisons to finish the year strongly and although we remain cautious on the economic environment and consumer spending, we look forward to further progress in the coming year.”

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