John Lewis sales up 10.8% last week
John Lewis increased its sales by 10.8% year-on-year last week as the retailer benefited from customers getting prepared for Christmas.
The rise follows record breaking sales in the previous week when sales climbed by 21.8% on the corresponding week last year.
The retailer said its shops remained busy with the top three performers being Poole, Tamworth and Chester where sales rose by 15.2%, 14.2% and 13.2% respectively.
Online trade continued to build with sales increasing by 32.2% year-on-year. Traffic to retailer’s website was particularly strong on Sunday between 8pm and 9pm, with visits rising by 30% on the previous week.
Never Miss a Retail Update!Fashion sales climbed by 7.8% year-on-year as cooler weather droves sales of winter clothing particularly women’s own brand cashmere accessories and men’s own brand knitwear. Women’s dressing gowns were also popular with sales rising by 23% on last year.
Within the home directorate sales edged up 4.8% as customers stocked up on items to help them prepare for the traditional Christmas lunch. Sales of meat thermometers rose by 37% while sales of stainless steel roasting pans climbed by 39%.
Meanwhile, electricals and home technology sales surged by 20.6% as customers bought food preparation items such as mixers and blenders. It was also a good week for Nespresso coffee machines which experienced their second biggest week for sales.
Paula Nickolds, John Lewis buying and brand director, said: “Another strong week of sales sees the business in good shape, with momentum building in the final weeks before Christmas.
“The cooler weather had a positive impact on sales of cashmere accessories up 51 per cent and Christmas dinner preparations were also evident, with customers investing in cookware and kitchen gadgets ahead of their festive feast. Looking ahead, our teams in our shops and online operations are ready for another busy week as we hit the first full week in December.”
