Debenhams pleased with market gains

Department store Debenhams today said half-year profits rose 10.7% after the popularity of its Designers at Debenhams range boosted market share.

The chain, which has 144 stores in the UK and Ireland, described the increase in profits to £104.2m (€116.6m) as a “considerable achievement” and said it was well placed going into the second half of the financial year.