An improving economy, low interest rates, increasing availability of credit, less general discounting on the high street and much better summer weather all contributed to a 19% rise in pre-tax profit at fashion chain Next.

The retailer said that the positive performance was ahead of its original expectations, including a 10% rise in total sales. Next added that the previous six months had seen the “strongest sales growth for many years”, with improvements in ranges, new space and growth in the online business all credited with playing a part in the improved performance.