Strong sales over the last two months have helped UK department store Debenhams to meet its financial targets for the year.
In an interim statement to investors covering the 43 weeks to June 25, the firm said it had been "particularly pleased" with sales trends experienced in May and June.
Gross transaction value for the group was up 3.1 per cent for the 43 weeks. Like-for-like sales including VAT were up by 1.1 per cent and down by 0.4 per cent excluding VAT.
Online purchases, mobile sales and in-store ordering were up 77 per cent year-on-year.
Rob Templeman, Debenhams' chief executive, said: "We are continuing to make progress despite significant headwinds in the sector and are pleased with the performance of the business in the year so far."
He added that the company remained "cautious" with regard to the environment on the high street and intends to continue to invest in its store portfolio, develop as a multi-channel business and effectively manage its supply chain.
