John Lewis sales up 4.6% in a week of two halves
John Lewis sales rose 4.6% year-on-year last week as the mix of cool and warm weather led to a week of two halves for trading.
The retailer saw strong sales during the early part of the week but trade slowed as the sun started to make an appearance towards the weekend.
Online sales were 21.1% up on last year driven by a 46% increase in sales via click & collect.
While footfall into shops was slightly slower than in previous weeks, High Wycombe recorded the biggest percentage rise with growth of 21.1% on last year. Other stores achieving good percentage increases included Tamworth, Chichester, Knight & Lee and Newbury.
Never Miss a Retail Update!Electrical and home technology sales climbed 10.6% as the warmer weather drove a 600% increase in sales of cooling products. Audio sales were also buoyant, boosted by a strong performance in portable speakers.
In the home directorate, the weather prompted strong growth in outdoor living, picnic and barbecue assortments. However, slower sales on furniture towards the end of the week meant that the directorate ended the week 1.4% down on last year.
Fashion sales climbed by 5.5% with trade boosted by the popularity of seasonal womenswear and price matching activity.
Barry Matheson, director of retail services at John Lewis, said: “Looking ahead, we have some fantastic opportunities to come with the promise of more good weather set to deliver continued strong performance of our television, seasonal clothing and outdoor living ranges.”
