IN BRIEF

Online supermarket Ocado has reported a slowdown in sales growth, though takings still rose 11.5% in the past three months.

The number of interest-free balance transfer deals on credit cards has fallen to a record low of 87, compared to 101 in June, according to Moneyfacts.

There has also been a drop in the length of the interest-free period on these cards, and a rise in the balance transfer fee.

Private hospital operator Spire Healthcare has blamed a big decline in NHS patients for a slump in its half-year profits.

Boss Justin Ash said: “The NHS is sending less patients than last year for elective surgery, such as hip replacements.”

Spire also reported slower than expected growth in private admissions as profits dropped 7.9% to £8.2million during the six months to June 30.