PRIMARK SALES ZIP UP

Sales at budget fashion chain Primark jumped 20% over the past 16 weeks. The increase was driven by new branch openings, the strong Easter and the weak pound, which boosted the value of Primark’s sales from overseas stores.

Owner Associated British Foods upped its full year outlook as it also had strong trading in its sugar producing arm. Nicholas Hyett, analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown, said: “Primark’s disposable fashion at amazing prices remains popular with shoppers across Europe, with sales growth many high street retailers would kill for.”