Burberry sales up on Asia growth

Burberry's European sales growth was far slower than in other regions

Fashion company Burberry said it had continued to benefit from its growing presence outside Europe, as it reported rising sales.

Sales grew by 21% in the six months to the end of September - or by 17% not including new stores.

There had also been a "material improvement" in profit margins, it added.

Much of the growth came from within Asia where sales were up by 50% - driven largely by China.

In comparison, sales in Europe grew by only 9% over the same period.

Earlier this year, the firm said it had agreed to buy out its franchisees in mainland China - a move it hoped would help it to make the brand more consistent by gaining greater control over the merchandise and how it is marketed.