Fashion retailer Hallenstein Glasson Holdings has released a brief update on its trading performance before raising its outlook.

The New Zealand-based operator of more than 130 retail stores in Australia and New Zealand has reported sales up by 14.6 per cent to $275.2 million in the first half of the financial year.

This led the group to lift its before-tax forecast to between $39.3 million and $39.8 million, which would be a 32.1 per cent increase year-on-year.

“The balance sheet for the group remains strong, and stock levels continue to be well controlled,” Hallenstein Glassons said.

With two main brands in its portfolio – Glassons and Hallenstein Brothers – the group has seen sales rise every year since 2014.

The full half-year results are scheduled for release on March 27.