The retailer's like-for-like sales rose 13 per cent in December, coming in ahead of Selfridges, Harrods and John Lewis. Harvey Nichols marketing director Julia Bowe said: 'We experienced buoyant trading and all stores reported healthy sales.'
Buying director Averyl Oates said this year's outlook is positive. 'We have had record sales of new merchandise, particularly fashion, since the Sale started, in terms of both volume and turnover,' she added.
Selfridges also turned in first-rate numbers as like-for-likes climbed 10 per cent in the four weeks to Christmas Eve. Chief executive Paul Kelly said: 'We've had a terrific Christmas and a strong start to the New Year.'
Harrods enjoyed a record Christmas. Sales were up 9 per cent for the eight weeks to December 24, compared with the same period last year.
Like-for-like sales at John Lewis jumped 7.1 per cent in the seven weeks to January 7. Managing director Charlie Mayfield said: 'The growth was because of a more targeted assortment, a stronger emphasis on our value message, a relentless focus on service, improved availability and more focused marketing.'
Ann Summers had a bumper Christmas online, with a web sales uplift of 23 per cent in the month to Christmas Eve compared with the same period in 2004. Like-for-likes were up 3 per cent.
Home shopping retailer Otto UK said its online sales climbed 48 per cent year on year, outperforming its catalogue business.
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