Mamas & Papas has reported an increase in like-for-like sales over the Christmas period, with personal shopping playing a key role.

Like-for-likes were up 2.7% in the six weeks to January 13, with personal shopping making up 18% of in-store sales, a rise from 10% one year ago.

Online sales saw double-digit growth.

The results are in stark contrast to the retailer’s main competitor Mothercare, which was forced to issue a profit warning amid like-for-likes crashing 7.2%.

Chief executive Jason Greenwood said: “Against a backdrop of difficult trading conditions on the high street, we’re pleased to have delivered another positive performance without compromising our premium credentials.

“We have continued to invest heavily in our unique in-store experience so that we can consistently deliver the highest level of service and product quality that our customers – millennial parents and parents-to-be – rightly expect.”

Greenwood added: “The outlook for consumer spending remains uncertain, but based on our recent trading performance we can look forward to the year ahead with cautious optimism.