Supported by 18.6 per cent higher than expected sales for the 11 weeks leading upto July 17, UK multinational clothing, shoes and household goods retailer Next has raised its full-year sales guidance from 3 per cent to 6 per cent. As per reports, the company estimates its pre-tax profit for 2010 to be £ 750 million.

Rise in sales is attributed to the stagnated demand for adult clothing growing due to few purchases made by consumers in the last 18 months. Fewer vacations abroad also spurred domestic spending in the UK as consumer savings increased significantly compared to last year.

In the last 11 weeks, UK sales performance in all Next divisions has improved with the opening of stores. The performance in its Label division improved by 64 per cent while overseas online business surged by 61 per cent.

For the full year, Next projects surplus cash to reach £ 240 million. The company has also decided to reimburse the government for a £ 29 million bailout.