Quarterly results dazzle Tiffany

 sales jumped 23 percent to the Tiffany flagship store in New York, which attracts tourists Net profit at Tiffany & Co have increased by 25% in the first quarter to a sign that the luxury sector remains strong.

The high range jeweller announced a profit of $81. 1 m (￡ 48 5 m) for the three months to April, compared to $64. 4 m, a year earlier and ahead of market forecasts.

Tiffany had said previously it expected sales to Japan in the fall of 15% in the quarter following the March earthquake and tsunami.

But while same store in the Japan sales fell in March, they have rebounded in April.

Through the quarter, sales same store fell to 3% in the region, while total sales increased by 7%.

The firm said all shops which had closed due to earthquake had reopened since.

Income increased in all regions, with net sales around the world climbing 20% 761 m $. Analysts expected sales of 703 m $.

In the future, the company stated that he "exciting plans" this year. It intends to open 19 new stores, to introduce new products and to increase marketing and advertising expenses.