John Lewis sales down 2.3% last week
The John Lewis department store’s sales declined by 2.3% last week compared to the corresponding week in 2018.
Trade was boosted by promotions in the lighting, fashion and beauty categories.
Fashion sales rose by 2.4% as the retailer launched its 12 days of Christmas Dresses offering, which was the best performing category in womenswear.
Sales in the beauty, wellbeing and leisure categories were also strong due to the retailer price matching competitors’ promotions.
Home sales were down 3.1% in the week, although lighting sales climbed by 21% as customers bought new lamps and lights for the winter evenings.
Meanwhile, electrical and home technology sales fell by 7% after the retailer annualised new product launches. Sales in the small electricals category were boosted by a 30% uplift in sales of floorcare products.
