Next, Britain's second biggest clothing retailer, edged up its year profit guidance after posting third quarter sales just above expectations.
The group trades from over 500 stores in Britain and Ireland and about 200 stores in over 30 countries overseas, as well as through its Directory internet and catalogue business.
Next said today it now expected a 2013-14 pre-tax profit of £650-680m. The firm had previously guided pre-tax profits of £635-675m.
Next said total sales rose 4.3% in the 13 weeks to October 26 - an acceleration from growth of 2.3% in the first half and just above the firm's second half guidance range of up 1-4 %.
