Marks & Spencer has managed to increase its share of the UK food and clothing sectors, as a result of a "good performance in a challenging market".
In a trading update released today, the company said total UK sales, excluding VAT, were up 2.7 per cent year-on-year in the 13 weeks to July 2. Food sales increased by 5 per cent and general merchandise sales were up by 0.3 per cent.
On a like-for-like basis, sales excluding VAT increased 1.7 per cent, with food sales up 3.3 per cent.
The company launched more than 500 new food products during the quarter, and claimed greater choice and innovation also helped boost sales.
Marc Bolland, chief executive, said: "Marks & Spencer continued to grow market share in both clothing and food by offering our customers more choice, great value for money and leading innovation.
"Against the uncertain economic backdrop, we are focused on trading through the short term, while building for the long term growth of the business."
Marks & Spencer is due to report its half year results on November 8.
