Total sales for the year were up 3.4 per cent and for Q4 were up 2.8 per cent. Like-for-like sales for the year were up 2.3 per cent and for Q4 were up 1.3 per cent. The figures for US concern Shaw's were positive but showed slower growth.

The store's group chief executive Peter Davis said 'In slower markets both in the UK and the US we have delivered steady sales during the year while making significant progress with out business transformation programme in the UK.' 'In addition we will deliver £200million of cost savings and expect to achieve the double-digit profit growth target for this year, giving profits that are in line with consensus market expectations.' The transformation programme includes the opening of four automated depots, two of which are already operational and buildign up capacity.

All figures include adjustment for Easter trading.