John Lewis sales boosted by wet weather
Sales at John Lewis for the week ending 23 July were up 7.1% on last year helped by the wet weather seen throughout the week.
At the stores, 15 branches were up on last year with Cambridge leading the way with an increase of 13%. The weakest performing branch was Reading with a 10.8% fall in sales.
Johnlewis.com saw sales rise 45% on last year. Fashion saw the biggest growth, driven by the launch of the schoolwear range online.
Sales of electricals and home technology items continued to grow with sales up 13% on last year. Home delivered its best performance this half outside Easter and clearance, with all buying groups ahead of last year.
In Fashion the new Thomas Pink and Triumph Essence brands drove interest in stores. The rainy weather also helped Barbour to a good week and in women’s accessories handbags benefitted with a 14% rise.
Sarah Morris, Head of Merchandising Operations, John Lewis commented: “This week signals the end of our first half as well as the start of the school holidays. With summery weather forecast we expect sales of seasonal merchandise as well as new season stock to maintain our current trading momentum in to the second half.“
