Debenhams announces profits rise

UK department store Debenhams posted an 18.6% rise in half-year profits today and predicted stable trading ahead.

The retailer, which has 164 stores including several in Ireland, said pre-tax profits beat market expectations, jumping to £123.6m (€139.86m) in the six months to February 27, compared with £104.2m (€117.9m) in the same period last year.