A clothing store revenue has increased by nearly 20 per cent due to strong performance in the first half of the financial year.

Joules, a clothing brand for men, women and children, which has stores in Cheltenham, Cirencester and Burford, has today released a trading update covering the year to 26 May 2017.

The group's revenue has increased by 19.6 per cent to £157million which is the group's first full financial period since it became a listed company, Joules had said this is down to their expansion into the UK and international markets and the customer's response to both new and core ranges across product categories through this period.

Joules wholesale revenues saw a rise of 20.3 per cent on the previous year which the retailer said was in line with the Boards expectations.

Retail revenue also increased by 19.4 per cent, which was helped by the continued growth as the group opened 11 net new stores in this period.

Joules CEO Colin Porter said: "The appeal and strength of the Joules brand continues to resonate with our loyal and growing customer base.

"The brand's growth continued in the second half of the financial year, building on the strong performance in the first half of the year.

"As a result of the brand's momentum across channels and product categories, the Board anticipates reporting profits for the full year comfortably ahead of its previous expectations.

"Our focus on our brand and our customers as well as our steadfast commitment to product quality remains the bedrock for the Group's growth and success.

"Underpinned by these strengths, the Board has confidence that Joules' momentum will continue into financial year 2018, despite the uncertain macro-economic outlook.

"This confidence is supported by the growth in our customer base and our exciting new store opening plans, as well as a robust Autumn/Winter wholesale order-book both in the UK and internationally."

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