Next reported total sales were up 4.1% in the first 13 weeks of the year, driven by a longer Sale period.

The fashion retailer said full-price sales increased 3.2%, “slightly ahead” of its 0 – 3% guidance.

The fashion retailer said about two thirds of that growth was driven by new store openings and the retailer said sales were “flattered” by the launch of its New In summer brochure which “helpfully” coincided with the warm weather.

Total sales in Next’s stores were up 0.5% in the quarter, while rising 9.2% in its directory.

Next said sales and profit guidance for the full year remains unchanged. 

The retailer expects a rise in group pre-tax profits of between 0.4% and 6.7%, totalling between £785m and £835m.