John Lewis sales up 23.4% last week although growth was flattered by last year’s snow
John Lewis saw its sales increase by 23.4% year-on-year last week as trade was buoyant both in its stores and online. However, the week’s trading figures were flattered by last year’s snow and the resulting weak comparatives.
In the retailer’s stores, every branch posted an increase on a year ago with the ‘At Home’ shops in Tamworth, Chichester and Poole performing particularly well. Online sales were also strong, rising 16.6% year-on-year as the retailer converted a healthy increase in online traffic.
Within the directorates, Home achieved the best result with sales rising by 25.5% boosted by strong sales of furniture, particularly beds.
Fashion sales increased by 23.6% driven by accessories and beauty, and a “fantastic result” in handbags.
Never Miss a Retail Update!Meanwhile, Electrical and Home Technology sales continued their strong run, rising by 21.6%. Audio sales were up 50%, lifted by the success of music streaming products, while small electrical sales rose by 37%.
Tim Harrison, head of retail implementation and format development at John Lewis, said: “The fact that this was a record week for our green van delivery fleet just highlighted the strength of trade over recent weeks and a good end to the year. As we look ahead to the new trading year we can be confident that customers appreciate everything we do – we just need to keep doing it!”
