Premium fashion brand Ted Baker has reported retail sales up 22.8% in the 8 weeks to January 3 after avoiding promotions before Christmas.

The retailer said gross margins were “in line with expectations”.

“As in previous years, there was no significant promotional activity before Christmas,” Ted Baker said.

The retailer said sales since Christmas have been “particularly strong”. It added: “We expect to end the year with a clean stock position.”

Online sales were up 65.7%, reflecting continuing growth in the UK and a “strong” performance in the US following a replatforming there in July.

Ted Baker founder and chief executive Ray Kelvin said: “The Group has delivered a great performance over the Christmas period across our global markets and distribution channels.

“Further underlying growth and brand momentum has been delivered as a result of our unswerving focus on product quality and the passion and dedication of our skilled team. We will continue to invest in people and infrastructure as we expand the Ted Baker brand globally.

“On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank the entire team for their continued hard work over this successful period. “

Ted Baker said its performance overseas “remained strong”.

“We continue to invest in our newer markets for the long-term opportunities of the Ted Baker brand,” it added.

Ted Baker increased its footprint from 303,174 sq ft to 331,208 sq ft year on year.

The retailer opened a store in Heathrow Terminal 4 in the period, and also relocated its Birmingham store to the Bullring. It opened two licensed stores in Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi.