Williams-Sonoma holiday sales rise

San Francisco Williams-Sonoma reported a 7.4% rise in holiday revenue, prompting the retailer to forecast fourth-quarter results above market estimates.

The operator of the Pottery Barn, West Elm and Williams-Sonoma chains has been helped by its decision to offer more lower-priced home-decor items and improved holiday merchandise, driving in more shoppers.

For the holiday period ended Dec. 27, sales increased 7.4% to $783 million.

The company expects fourth-quarter sales of $1.06 billion to $1.08 billion.