UK retailer Boots, part of the Walgreens Boots Alliance, has reported a slight increase in sales over the Christmas period thanks to the popularity of its successful Soap & Glory range.

According to a trading statement from the company for its second quarter to February 29, during the 13 weeks covering the festive period sales were up 1.8 percent driven by beauty brands No 7 and Soap & Glory, seasonal products and the success of its recently launched Order and Collect service.

Stefano Pessina, chief executive and executive vice chairman of WBA, said, “We remain on track to achieve our expectations for the fiscal year as we work to mitigate lower pharmacy reimbursement rates and challenging retail sales environments,”

Net sales rose by 13.6 percent year on year to $30.2 billion while adjusted net earnings were ahead 14.4 percent at $1.4 billion.

In other news the company will continue to roll out the Sleek make up range purchased in 2015 while the Liz Earle brand continues to be a big seller online and in store.

The UK figures are rolled into its international division that includes Thailand, Norway, Ireland, Mexico and Chile, making its financial figures unclear.