Debenhams sales up despite fewer Christmas discounts

SALES at Debenhams increased this Christmas despite the department store discounting less items than the previous year.

The British-based retailer, which acquired the business and assets of nine Roches Stores outlets in September 2006 for €29 million, said a rise in the VAT rate in Britain and a general election there means trading will be uncertain in 2010.

It forecast a further rise in profit margin this year despite the tough economic outlook as it posted a small rise in sales and a profit increase in the run-up to Christmas.