Marks & Spencer reports strong Christmas sales as revival remains on track

Retailer said comparable sales in the UK and Ireland rose 6.4% in the 13 weeks to December 28

The chain’s clothing division — for many years pilloried for being unfashionable — has also shown continued uplift in demand with comparable sales climbing 1.9% in the third quarter.

Marks & Spencer Group said sales records were broken this Christmas as shoppers stocked up on its festive food ranges and party clothes and knitwear.

The fashion and homewares company said on Thursday that comparable sales in the UK and Ireland rose 6.4% in the 13 weeks to December 28. That was ahead of expectations, largely due to a strong performance in food.