Marks and Spencer sales rose in 1Q

British clothing-to-food retailer Marks and Spencer said Wednesday that sales grew in the group's first quarter, as consumer sentiment appeared to stabilise despite the economic downturn.

M&S, seen as a barometer of consumer sentiment in recession-hit Britain, said in a trading update that total sales rose 2.9 percent in the 13 weeks to June 27, compared with the corresponding period of the previous year.

"We are pleased with the improving trend in our performance," said Chairman Stuart Rose in the statement.

He added, "Consumer confidence appears to be stabilising. However, we remain cautious about the outlook for the remainder of this and next year and will continue to run the business accordingly."

In the group's home market Britain, sales increased by 1.7 percent. Its international division performed particularly well, with sales surging 15.9 percent. AFP