Women‘s fashion retailer Hobbs has reported “an excellent trading performance” in the run up to Christmas as total sales rose 16.4 per cent in the 10 weeks to January 5th 2013, it has been announced today.

In-store sales increased 6.1 per cent over the period while online sales soared a record 60.2 per cent, driven by the strong performance of Boxing Day which saw online sales leap 80 per cent.

Commenting on the solid results, Iain MacRitchie, Chairman of Hobbs said: “We are delighted with our Christmas performance, achieving good growth in sales across all labels and channels, despite a tough trading environment.

“Our multichannel offer plays an important role in providing our customers with a great shopping experience during the busy Christmas period.”

Sales of tops and dresses grew 65 per cent and 57 per cent respectively while sales improved within Hobbs-owned youth fashion label NW3, up 35 per cent during a “strong year”, the retailer said.

Looking ahead, MacRitchie commented: “While we anticipate conditions will remain challenging for the retail sector over the coming year, we are looking forward to continued growth across the business both domestically and internationally in 2013.”