Two private equity-backed companies in the UK have reported stronger sales and profits than many of their retail peers, as the economic downturn which has already led to the collapse of a number of high-profile businesses, continues to hit the sector.

Shares in listed UK department store Debenhams rose 26% this morning to £0.36 per share at 12:34GMT after the company said profits before tax and earnings before interest tax depreciation and amortisation had increased in the 18 weeks ended 3 January compared to the same period last year.