Internet sales boost Next profits

Fashion chain Next today reported a 3.6% rise in profits as an “excellent performance” from its website offset disappointment at its high street stores.

The retailer, which has suffered from intense competition from Marks & Spencer and Debenhams, posted pre-tax profits above City forecasts of £178.9m (€264.3m) for the six months to July compared with £172.6m (€255m) in the same period last year.