Marks & Spencer has said its Irish operations continue to perform strongly although the group will not disclose trading figures for the Republic. A statement from the company indicated that it was experiencing growth in all areas of its business, with food sales running well ahead of target at its four Irish stores.

Marks & Spencer general manager Ireland, Mr Steve Costello, said that, while the overall strength of the Irish economy had undoubtedly benefitted the business, innovations, particularly in textiles had also been a major contributor to the stores' performance.

In the past six months, it has introduced its Autograph designer collection, and created specialist mother and baby and sportswear departments.

Marks & Spencer employs 1,300 people at stores in Dublin and Cork.