Disappointing first quarter for Next

Next warned that trading would remain under pressure

The worse-than-expected performance over the 13 weeks to April 29 came despite a boost from the later, warmer Easter this year, although Next said its Directory arm performed better, with sales up 3.3 per cent. This left total full-price sales 3 per cent lower.

Next cut the top end of its profit guidance after the disappointing first quarter, with full-year profits now expected to fall by between 13.9 and 6.4 per cent.

Chief executive Lord Wolfson said the group was still battling to recover from mistakes made last year with its product ranges, while consumer confidence has also been hit as rising prices puts households under pressure.

He said: "There's general pressure on the high street but the omissions in our own range are hitting our sales over and above any downturn."

Richard Lim, chief executive at Retail Economics, said: “Troubles at Next show no sign of abating judging by these latest figures. Continued under performance against the market suggests the problems are more company-specific than we’d first thought.

"The growth of the experience economy, the relentless shift towards online shopping and the emergence of nimbler pure online retailers has changed the competitive landscape for the clothing sector. What’s more, consumers have embraced the casual sportswear market in recent years which has diverted even more spending away from the retailer."