British fashion retailer Joules PLC (LON:JOUL) saw sales boom in the run up to Christmas, bucking some of the recent high street gloom.
Total retail at the AIM-quoted group jumped 19.2% year-on-year, driven by growth both online and in-store.
READ: Joules shares rise as it reports jump in first half revenue
Impressively, Joules managed to grow sales without having to slash prices, with retail gross margin remaining similar to last year thanks to its “disciplined and selective approach to promotional activity”.
Chief executive Colin Porter added: “"The group's retail performance through the Christmas trading period is testament to the strength of the Joules brand, unique product proposition and customer engagement.
“Both stores and e-commerce channels delivered good growth with the increasing awareness and popularity of the brand.”
READ: Joules Group anticipates maiden full-year results to be “comfortably ahead" of previous expectations
While Next Plc (LON:NXT) also enjoyed a strong festive period, fellow retailers Debenhams PLC (LON:DEB) and Mothercare plc (LON:MTC) both reported that British consumers are tightening their belts.
High street stalwart Marks and Spencer Group Plc (LON:MKS) is also expected to reveal declines in both its food and clothing divisions when it updates the market on Thursday.
Results for the six months to 26 November 2017 will be announced on January 31.
Shares fell 0.3% to 309p in mid-morning trade on Tuesday.