Retail giant Marks & Spencer (M&S), which employs 1,300 people at four stores in Dublin and Cork, posted better-than-expected second-quarter results today.
The results showed a 2.8 per cent increase in overall second-quarter sales. Sales of clothing, footwear and gifts showed a rise of 0.8 per cent in the 12 weeks to the end of September. Food sales rose by 4.9 per cent.
The company's trading statement included only two days of sales for the retailer's new "per una" womenswear range, designed and supplied by George Davies.
M&S said there was a steady improvement in clothing throughout the second quarter.
Chairman and chief executive Mr Luc Vandevelde said: "We have been encouraged by the response of our customers to the improvements we have made to the appeal, quality and fit of our clothing".
Although warning the uncertain economic climate might affect the high street in the run-up to Christmas, he said: "We believe our customers will appreciate the continuing improvements we are making to our products, as well as to the store environment".
In July, M&S had announced first-quarter sales fell by 2.6 per cent. Taking today's results into account, sales for the half-year to September 29th were down 0.2 per cent.