Popular fashion retailer New Look has announced that its UK like-for-like sales increased 4.3% in its third quarter thanks to a “robust” Christmas period.

Figures show that pre-tax profit rose 38.9% to £87.9 million and revenue rose 5.6% to £1.7 billion in the 39 weeks to 26th December.

Chief executive, Anders Kristiansen, said: “In what has been perceived as a tough market this quarter, we feel pleased with this performance.

“Our preparation and readiness for the peak trading season ensured we delivered good results, despite the highly promotional environment in the UK including the competitive challenges generated by Black Friday.”

New Look has also reported that expansion in China continues and it expects to have 85 stores running by the end of this financial year, as well as a further 15-20 menswear standalone stores next year.

Kristainsen added: “I’m pleased with our progress in China, with over 80 stores now open and one of our four priority markets which remains a key driver of growth for our business, and the continued good performance of our new standalone menswear stores, we are excited to be opening more of these in the coming months.

“We are now seeing our Spring ranges hit down in stores and are encouraged by the initial reactions by our customers.”