Next's

Next's Directory home shopping book has been quietly adding to the company's sales growth since its launch in 1988, but since the inclusion of online sales at the turn of the millennium the directory division has been outperforming bricks-and-mortar stores, providing the impetus for positive sales growth even in a weak consumer environment.

Online Sales Boost Next Kathy Gordon 2011

Directory sales now account for 30% of Next's U.K. sales, up from 24% five years ago, predominantly because of online sales.

Online Sales Boost Next Kathy Gordon 2011

The retail sector also witnessed losses after high street and online fashion retailer Next's trading update disappointed.

European Stocks Decline Andrea Tryphonides 2012

Other affordables include Topshop's knitted bird sweater (£42), Mango's stars sweater (£34.90) and Next's heart sweater (£28).

The Woolly Logic of Winter Wear Tina Gaudoin 2011

Along with Next's online success, John Lewis department stores has been a perennial winner in the economic downturn, and the company Wednesday said same-store sales up 6.2% in the five weeks to Dec. 31.

Next Warns on 2012 Profits Kathy Gordon 2012

Retail sales at Next's high street stores were down 2.7%, but its directory and online sales rose 16.9% in the period, reflecting a long-running trend that has seen Web sales flourish while high-street sales have shrunk.

Next Warns on 2012 Profits Kathy Gordon 2012

Mr. Wolfson characterized Next's outlook as "light at the end of the tunnel."

U.K. Clothier Lifts Retail Gloom Kathy Gordon 2011

Next's more positive outlook for 2012 was echoed by Andy Street , managing director of department store chain John Lewis PLC, after it reported a decline in first half profit due to increased capital investment and the tough economic backdrop.

U.K. Clothier Lifts Retail Gloom Kathy Gordon 2011

In addition, the soaring price of cotton and higher manufacturing costs that have forced Next's prices up around 8% this year and hurt sales, will also moderate in 2012, he said.

U.K. Clothier Lifts Retail Gloom Kathy Gordon 2011

The news will be an unwelcome portent for more vulnerable retailers that don't have Next's well-developed online offering to counteract a slump in high-street sales.

Next Warns on 2012 Profits Kathy Gordon 2012