John Lewis sales dip 0.8% last week
John Lewis saw its sales fall 0.8% last week on the same period last year but increase by 6% on the week ending 5 November.
Total sales reached £76.3 million as home furnishing services, floor coverings and bedding performed well. Branches reported strong sales of Christmas trees and gift food. The retailer said technology was emerging as one its key gift trends.
Andrew Murphy, retail director, John Lewis, said: “With very strong figures from last year against us, milder weather than is seasonal and the turbulent economic climate, our results show that our customers are beginning to think seriously about Christmas and making John Lewis their destination for purchases. They give us continued confidence that John Lewis’ strong and innovative products, customer service and price matching will ensure our position as market leader on the high street over the festive season.”
The retailer broadcast its Christmas TV advert for the first time over the weekend which was watched by over 10 million viewers in a prime ‘X Factor’ slot. Many viewers hailed the advert as the retailer’s ‘best ever’ as it attracted almost 400,000 views on Youtube in just two days.
Commenting on its success, Craig Inglis, marketing director at John Lewis said: “It’s clear from comments in social media that with only 42 days to go, for many people the launch of the John Lewis advert signals the beginning of the countdown to Christmas. The performance of the advert’s star, seven-year-old Lewis McGowan, seems to have captured the mood of the nation with many people commenting on the advert’s focus of what Christmas is really about – the anticipation and joy of giving a thoughtful present to your loved ones.”
