Pets at Home has defied the economic gloom by posting a 10.4 per cent increase in like-for-likes in the six weeks to January 8.

In the 41 weeks to March 28, like-for-likes jumped 7.2 per cent, while total sales jumped 13.4 per cent.

Pets at Home chief executive Matt Davies said its strategy of “expanding and innovating within our own brand ranges” delivered an improved margin.

Davies said over the Christmas period food sales, such as its new cat and dog deli range, were “particularly encouraging”.

He said: “While the economic environment is challenging for all retailers, the continued strengthening of our offer coupled with our store opening programme and the exceptional talent and dedication of our people gives us confidence for the future.”

During the festive period, the retailer sold 300,000 Christmas stockings for dogs, cats and small animals, as well as more than 250,000 Christmas toys.

It operates 227 stores and employs 4,100 staff.

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