Next disappoints over online growth

High street giant Next has raised its full-year profit hopes but disappointed investors with a worse-than-expected performance from its powerhouse online business.

The fashion and homewares chain, which has around 540 stores, said sales through its website Next Directory increased 5.6% in the quarter to October 27, against City expectations of 10% and 13.3% growth in the first half of the year.
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