John Lewis sales up 7.6% last week
John Lewis increased its sales by 7.6% year-on-year last week as trade was boosted by a strong week online and competitive price matching activity.
Fashion sales grew by 14.3% as new season stock and some slightly warmer weather helped womenswear to post a 20% increase in sales. Other categories that performed well included beauty and accessories, sports, nursery, babywear and men’s accessories.
Sales climbed by 10.3% in the home directorate with big-ticket purchases dominating once again led by upholstery, beds and floor coverings.
Meanwhile, electrical and home technology sales edged up 0.4% boosted by buoyant trade in vacuum cleaners and small electrical items.
Looking at online, sales climbed by 26.9%, helped by strong traffic to the John Lewis website and good conversion rates.
Stores achieving the best percentage increases in the week included Exeter, Liverpool, Southampton and Swindon.
Simon Russell, director of retail operations development at John Lewis, said: “Spring is just round the corner and all the signs are that the new season’s Fashion and Home assortments are hitting the mark with customers!”