Weak pound attracts Euro shoppers

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The weak pound is attracting shoppers from France and other European nations to the UK, a leading retailer says.

Department store Selfridges says credit card records reveal trade from France rose 70% in January and February compared to the same time last year.

Business has also grown 40% from other countries using the euro.

"European customers are coming to London to get life's luxuries at the best possible price," said Selfridges' buying director Anne Pitcher.

'Real value'

"They are taking advantage of the strong euro to make great savings on fabulous things and to enjoy visiting one of the world's most inspiring cities."

The store, which has its flagship shop in London's Oxford Street, says Gallic customers are snapping up classic French luxury brands such as Chanel, Chloe and Louis Vuitton.

A Chanel quilted leather bag costing £1,780 in Paris can be bought for £255 less in London.

Eurostar said the weak pound had contributed to a 10% increase in leisure visitors coming across the Channel since the start of the year.

Spokesman Simon Montague said: "Continental visitors are being attracted to London by the great deals and real value that can be found."