Stockholm, Sweden (BBN) – Total sales of Sweden-based fashion retailer H&M increased by 5.0 percent in January 2013 compared to the same month the previous year. 

 
“In January 2013, H&M Group total sales including VAT in local currencies increased by 5.0 percent compared to the same month the previous year,” the company said in statement on Friday. 
 
Sales in comparable units decreased by 4.0 percent, the statement said, adding that comparable units comprise the stores and the internet and catalogue sales countries that have been in operation for at least a financial year.
 
The total number of stores amounted to 2,808 on 31 January 2013 versus 2,488 on 31 January 2012.
 
H & M Hennes & Mauritz AB (H&M) was established in Sweden in 1947 and is synonymous with affordable as well as up-to-date and high quality fashion. H&M has a wide product range that is divided into a number of different concepts for women, men, teenagers and children. 
 
The company’s clothing collections are created by its own designers, pattern makers and buyers. H&M has more than 104,000 employees and around 2,800 stores in 48 markets, including franchise markets. 
 
BBN/SSR/AD-15Feb13-6:36 pm (BST)