Department store group’s first-half results reveal gross transaction value up 0.3% with ‘positive movement in gross margin’ attributed to own-brand products.
According to the trading update, gross transaction value for the 26 weeks ended February 28, 2009 was up 0.3% on the previous year.

Like-for-like sales were down 3.6% for the period but Debenhams announced that its own-brand ranges had delivered good sales growth and it had made further progress to increase its 'own bought participation'.

"The strength of our own-bought sales has contributed to a positive movement in gross margin and we expect gross margin for the first half to be higher than last year."

The company has focused on keeping a tight management on costs and stock, resulting in terminal stocks being 'at a historically low level' at the end of the first half.

Debenhams ceo, Rob Templeman said: "We are pleased with our performance during the first half of the year given the extremely difficult trading conditions experienced across the high street. We have continued to grow our top line and to take market share."

He added: "We have said previously that our main focus is on cash profit rather than just sales and our increase in profits during the first half despite the environment is testament to this aim and to the close management of resources throughout the business."