M&S sales surge ahead
Marks & Spencer today announced a bigger-than-expected rise in like-for-like sales of 5.3% in the second quarter of its financial year.
The retail chain beat City expectations in the 13 weeks to October 2, with general merchandise sales up 7% and food sales ahead 3.7%.
The retailer said its latest advertising campaign had driven customers to its stores and helped boost its clothing market share to 10.3%, but warned the increased marketing would lead to operating costs at the top end of forecasts.
