N Brown says downturn's a load of pants as lingerie boosts sales

N Brown, the home-shopping retailer that owns Jacamo, Simply Be and High and Mighty, gave evidence today that its recent purchase of lingerie brand Figleaves is an early success.

In the 18 weeks to July 2, sales across the group rose 5.1%.

That compares favourably with most recent results from retailers, which are enduring a tough period.

The company said that aggressive promotional discounting had cut into profit margins but sales remained buoyant.

On a like for like basis, sales are up 1.6%.

The statement to the London Stock Exchange said: "The pattern of demand is consistent with last year as menswear and footwear are growing strongly and ladieswear is slightly down."

The internet part of the business is ever more important. Online sales are now 47% of the total, up from 41% a year ago.

The shares rose 6.6p to 268.4p.