UK electricals group Dixons announced a 2% rise in Christmas sales after seeing strong performances from its Currys and Dixons chains. The group own 15 Dixons, Currys and PC World stores here.
It described the trading environment as challenging but said strong demand for digital cameras, plasma televisions and internet audio products such as iPods had helped sales figures at its two frontline chains.
Currys produced like-for-like sales growth of 6% in the eight weeks to January 8, while the figure for Dixons was up 9% following a refit programme and a recent move to close smaller, under-performing stores.
PC World sales were below forecast at minus 7%, after the weak dollar caused a fall in computer prices, and mobile phone chain The Link posted flat figures.
The company said it remained cautious about prospects for consumer spending in the UK but added that it expected full-year results in line with market hopes.
Half-year results for the 28 weeks to November 13 - also announced today - showed profits before exceptional items rose 15% to £127.5 million. Group sales from continuing operations rose by 9% to £3.4 billion in the half year, with the growth including a like-for-like gain of 6% in the UK.
