MADRID, Dec 14 Reuters Zara owner Inditex posted a 24 increase in net profit for the first nine months of its fiscal year, as price rises helped offset weakening global demand for clothing.

The world39;s biggest fashion retailer39;s store and online sales rose 19 from a year ago, slightly faster than analysts had expected. Price rises of 5 or more across some ranges since the spring helped drive sales, analysts said.

The company, whose brands also include Massimo Dutti and Bershka, rose to 3.1 billion euros 3.3 billion from 2.5 billion euros a year ago.

Shares in Inditex were up 2 in midmorning trading.

The company has outperformed some rivals since Marta Ortega, the daughter of the founderowner Amancio Ortega, took the helm as nonexecutive chair in April.

The sales outperformance may reflect the quality of the product design and offering as well as the more attractive price point compared to peers as price increases appear to be less than the wider market, said Deutsche Bank analyst Adam Cochrane.

Inditex has recently been offering more high fashion Zara pieces designed for special occasions. The approach has allowed it to sell higherpriced items and attract shoppers from the luxury segment of the market, according to analysts.

Speaking to analysts on a conference call, Inditex Chief Executive Garcia Maceiras cited a strong performance in the United States and said the company was confident about its prospects in China in the medium and longterm.

Sales…