Discount retailer Poundland said its Christmas sales were up by more than one-third after it opened more stores and the chain continued to attract new customers.
The retailer plans to open a further eight stores before the end of March, creating 250 jobs, while it is also offering permanent positions to 360 temporary workers who were recruited to help meet demand during the Christmas period.
The new stores meant total sales rose 34.8% in the five weeks to January 3, with the figure excluding additional shop space ahead by 4.4%.
Chief executive Jim McCarthy said: “The increase in shoppers over Christmas 2009 is yet more proof that Poundland continues to offer both quality and value.”
