John Lewis reveals how British buying habits have changed in the last 12 months
John Lewis has released its fourth annual John Lewis Retail Report in which it reveals how the UK’s homes, wardrobes and lives have changed in the last twelve months.
The report’s analysis of a year’s worth of John Lewis sales shows that the weather had a huge impact on what customers bought and when. A mild January saw strong sales of lightweight linen while snow in April meant sales of scarves, faux fur throws and slippers rose by 41%, 200% and 300% respectively. In addition, an unseasonably cool early summer led to a 13% rise in ladies’ thermal underwear purchases.
The retailer said UK shoppers shook things up in their homes and wardrobes with bold, attention-grabbing purchases. Sales of bright, abstract printed dresses soared in womenswear, while clashing prints made a statement in the home with sales of multi-coloured hummingbird wallpaper increasing by 94% and patterned china by 52%.
Meanwhile, eye-catching flamingos emblazoned everything from cups and cushions to wallpaper and fairy lights. Searches for ‘flamingo’ increased 200% on johnlewis.com.
2016 was also the year of the avocado with searches for avocado-related products 85% higher than the previous 12 month period.
Other products increasing in popularity included smart home products as consumers looked to remotely control their homes.
In addition, sales of portable mobile phone chargers soared over 200% in July as people hunted for Pokemon.
The report also provides a glimpse of products falling from favour. These included big hats, selfie sticks, CD and DVD storage and alarm clocks.
