Debenhams has beaten analysts' expectations with its results for the first half of the financial year.
The British retailer said profit before tax over the period was up 4.3% on the same time last year at £88.9 million, despite a share price fall after the Christmas period when it warned that margins over the full year would be at the lower end of expectations.
Debenhams said its focus on online delivery, which is up 12.7%, is part of its success and the company has also cut its debt by £62.4 million, to £297.3 million.
The department store chain said it would continue with its current strategy for maintainable growth in the longer term.
"Overall we delivered a good first-half performance, despite a difficult clothing season in autumn and we are on track to achieve full-year expectations," said chief executive Michael Sharp.
"We are continuing to plan prudently in the near term, while remaining focused on our strategic priorities."
