Following are highlights:
Reported on Jan.4:
Aldi UK [ALDIEI.UL]
Aldi UK, the British arm of the German discount supermarket chain, said its sales rose over 15 percent in December year-on-year, a record Christmas performance that was driven by strong demand for its premium ranges.
Debenhams Plc (>> Debenhams Plc)
Retailer Debenhams said its British like-for-like sales at constant currency fell 2.6 percent in the 17 weeks to Dec. 30, reflecting a volatile and competitive market in the autumn and a disappointing first week of its post-Christmas sale. It also downgraded its profit forecast after it slashed prices to drive sales in the run-up to Christmas and cut them again after shoppers failed to turn out for its clearance sale.
Reported on Jan.3:
Poundland
Poundland, which is owned by troubled South African group Steinhoff (>> Steinhoff International Holdings NV), said it enjoyed a record Christmas, with sales up 5.6 percent in the 12 weeks to Dec. 24.
Next Plc (>> Next)
British clothing retailer Next raised its full-year profit forecast after beating guidance for sales in the run-up to Christmas, as colder weather helped sales of winter clothes. Its shares surged as much as 10 percent
John Lewis [JLPC.UL]
Department store chain John Lewis reported an 8.9 percent jump in total sales in Christmas week with big increases from fashion, homeware and home technology categories.
(Compiled by Rahul B and Radhika Rukmangadhan; Editing by Keith Weir and Susan Fenton)