Debenhams to introduce 'clarity' with buying rejig

Debenhams is switching to an own-bought buying strategy to bring 'clarity' and improved margins to the department store's home offer.

Debenhams finance director Chris Woodhouse said the retailer was in the process of clearing merchandise it was not happy with. 'You will see more clarity and a stronger offer in homewares,' he said.

The company plans to roll out its Designers collections and younger concessionaires, such as Top Shop and Oasis, to all of its stores.

The retailer is gaining momentum under private ownership, with like-for-likes up 1.5 per cent in the 39 weeks to May 29 and 3.1 per cent in the past 13 weeks. Trading profit rose 13.7 per cent to£145.9 million for the same period.