John Lewis sales up 6.9% last week
John Lewis enjoyed strong trading last week with sales rising by 6.9% year-on-year.
All three buying directories posted increases.
Fashion sales grew by 5.9%, despite the warm weather, driven by new autumn/winter ranges and promotional activity. Some of the best performing categories included own-brand ranges, women’s cashmere and cold weather accessories where sales rose by 16%, 46% and 23% respectively. New brand launches Thomas Pink and Hugo Boss supported the momentum in men’s brands, which registered a 14% increase.
Home sales edged up 2.9% boosted by an 8% uplift in furnishing textiles and carpet sales. Other strong performers included decorative bed linens and filled bed linens.
Electricals and home technology sales climbed by 12.2% as new Apple products boosted trade. The retailer said the new iPhone 6s and 6s Plus, available for pre-order online from Wednesday night and for purchase on Friday, exceeded expectations. Last week also saw the first full week sales of the Apple watch. Small electricals sales benefited from Dyson promotions.
Online sales grew by 21.3% while shops achieving the biggest percentage increases included Tamworth and Exeter.
Ed Connolly, buying director for fashion and beauty at John Lewis, said: “With Christmas shop opening in all branches this week, and as momentum behind our gifting assortments continues, we have an optimistic outlook for October.”
