Jane Norman profits are top of the shops

Womenswear specialist Jane Norman has emerged as the most profitable UK clothing chain by pre-tax profit margin, according to latest research.

According to data from Prospect Shop, Jane Norman has a pre-tax profit margin of 22.4 per cent - nearly three times the industry average of 8.2 per cent. Joseph followed with a profit margin of 21.7 per cent, while Monsoon and Ted Baker also sparkled, with margins of 16.6 per cent and 15.2 per cent respectively.

The report reflected the financial performance of 122 clothing businesses, based on data for the last complete financial year available.

However, Evolution Beeson Gregory analyst Nick Bubb warned that the figures do not reflect present market conditions. He said: 'It has not been so easy this year. The weather has not been helpful and there has been a lot of discounting. The tide has begun to go out.'