John Lewis sales up 3.4% last week
John Lewis has reported that sales rose by 3.4% year-on-year last week despite the unsettled weather.
Fashion sales climbed by 5.7% as trade was boosted price matching and Valentine’s Day footfall. Women’s accessories and beauty sales increased by 3% and womenswear also had a good week, with sales rising by 12%.
Home sales increased by 7.9% as price-matching competitor activity on big-ticket items helped to boost trade. There were strong performances from textiles and carpets, furniture, beds and mattresses. Meanwhile, stationery sales rose by 5% driven by Valentine’s footfall.
Electricals and home technology had a tougher week with sales falling by 2.7% on the year. However, there were some high points with small electrical and large electrical sales rising by 21% and 6% respectively.
Online sales were up 14.1% on the year, with gains across all directorates.
Dino Rocos, operations director at John Lewis, said: “As we near the end of the first trading period we are focusing on ensuring availability is strong, therefore putting us in a good position for the coming season and enabling us to meet customers’ expectations during the half term week.”
