John Lewis sales up 8.1% last week
John Lewis grew its sales by 8.1% year-on-year last week as it launched its clearance sale a week later than in 2013.
The retailer said the business generated sales of £87 million with both the department stores and online performing well. It also broke a couple of records.
Meg Lustman, John Lewis buying director for fashion, said: “This year’s launch aligned with payday and it would appear that the delay did nothing to dampen our customers’ appetite for a great bargain. It was the best summer clearance launch for Home and johnlewis.com experienced the busiest hour we have ever had between 9 and 10pm on Wednesday.”
Fashion sales climbed by 17.9% driven by strong performances across womenswear, menswear and footwear. Trade was also boosted by an 18% gain in accessories with sales of handbags and shoes being particularly strong.
Never Miss a Retail Update!Home sales rose by 4.3% as trade in furniture and textiles was driven by ‘Special Buy’ and ‘Reduced to Clear’ demand. Beds and mattresses performed well with sales of ‘Special Buy’ mattresses up 13% on 2013.
Electrical and home technology edged up 1.8% on the year although vision sales failed to match the strong growth seen in the weeks running up to the World Cup. However, small electrical sales were up 15%, and audio and gaming sales rose 31% year-on-year.
Lustman added: “Sales this week will be driven by continued clearance activity. Thank you to all partners across the business for their great collaborative preparation and delivery of clearance.”
