Next increases forecasts to €1bn following strong sales

The retailer, which operates 500 stores around Britain and Ireland, defied its own expectations for the second quarter of this year

A return to formal events like weddings has boosted Next's sales.  

Next received a boost today after reporting a 5% increase in full price sales for the second quarter of this year - €60m ahead of their expectations.

The British retailer, which operates stores all around Ireland, has lifted its full year forecasts by £10m (€12m) to £860m (€1bn) following strong online and in-store sales this summer.