Tesco and M&S Report Strong Christmas Food Sales Amidst Retail Challenges

London – Tesco and Marks & Spencer (M&S) both reported strong Christmas food sales, defying a broader downturn in the retail sector. Tesco's UK sales rose by 3.2%, achieving its highest market share in over a decade, according to the company. M&S also experienced a surge in food sales, driven by what they termed "Christmas hero lines."

M&S saw a 5.5% increase in food sales. However, the company's fashion, home, and beauty segment experienced a 2.9% sales decline. This decrease was attributed to lower foot traffic and the lingering effects of a previous cyber-attack, potentially disappointing investors who had hoped for a revitalization of the clothing business.

While Tesco and M&S celebrated their success in the food sector, other retailers faced a more challenging festive period. AB Foods, the owner of Primark, saw its shares plummet by more than 10% after reporting weaker-than-expected sales at the fashion chain, citing a "difficult market."

The Christmas period is considered crucial for retailers, often determining their overall financial performance for the year. Tesco's strong performance indicates a successful strategy in capturing market share during this critical time. M&S's mixed results highlight the challenges facing retailers in balancing different segments of their business.