While retailers ranging from Tesco to Dunelm have increased their profit forecasts after strong festive trading, life was harder for Currys. The electricals giant shaved £5m off its earnings, now expected to come in at approximately £155m.

However, despite a 5% slide in group like-for-like sales over Christmas, Currys chief executive Alex Baldock says the retailer’s specialist strengths came into their own during the period and he is “super-excited” about building on enhanced customer appeal.