Jimmy Choo’s trainers help it to sneak ahead

Jimmy Choo may be known for its killer heels, but menswear lines and upmarket trainers have helped it to step up sales, the footwear firm said on Thursday.

The luxury retailer said menswear was its fastest-growing category in 2016, accounting for 9% of revenue.

It also flagged the popularity of its £350-£995 Miami sneakers range.

The British brand, which counts Oscar-winning actress Emma Stone as a fan, added it benefited in the second half from the weaker pound enticing tourists to its London shops.

That, plus growth in Asia, helped sales in the year to December 31 increase 14.5% to £364 million.

Operating profit was up 42.6% to £42.5 million, but pre-tax profit fell to £17.7 million from £22.1 million, partly owing to currency fluctuations and investments in 10 new stores. It now has 150 shops.

Jimmy Choo noted “increased geopolitical uncertainty”. However, boss Pierre Denis said the business will continue to grow, with more openings planned.

House broker Liberum said: “Choo has very strong growth prospects across all its channels.”