ROYAL BOOST HELPS REISS DEFY RETAIL GLOOM

FASHION chain Reiss has shrugged off the High Street downturn to post bumper sales.

The retailer – which is a favourite of the Duchess of Cambridge ( pictured) – notched up a 13.2pc rise in sales for the year ending February 2 as profits soared 21.3pc to £19.3m.

The strong sales come as many traditional retailers struggle to attract customers as they shun the High Street and shop online instead. Reiss was founded in 1971 by David Reiss as a menswear firm which went on to launch women’s clothes in 2000.

Celebrity endorsements have helped boost demand for its clothing which includes dresses that sell for up to £295 online. Reiss said it was confident about the year ahead with UK sales in the 10 weeks to April 3 soaring by 27.6pc.

Christos Angelides, chief executive of Reiss, said: ‘I am conscious that the retail environment remains subdued and we will not be complacent as we continue in our work to create beautiful, timeless clothes for Reiss customers.’