Next reports international sales surge despite UK retail slowdown

Fashion retailer Next has raised its sales targets following a significant surge in international business, which grew by 32.2 percent in the latest quarter. This growth surpassed the company's previous forecast of 20.5 percent and helped offset slower performance in the United Kingdom.

In the UK, Next reported that quarterly sales growth eased to 2 percent, down from 3.6 percent in the prior six months. The company attributed this volatility to pressure on household budgets and unseasonably warm weather in September, which impacted demand for autumn and winter clothing lines.

Overall, Next reported that total full-price sales rose by 8.1 percent for the 13 weeks ending October 31, placing the company approximately £33 million ahead of its guidance. The retailer now expects total group sales growth of 7.6 percent for the year ending January.