John Lewis sales up 9.8% in the last week of financial year
John Lewis has reported a 9.8% increase in sales in the last week of its financial year despite fewer customers visiting its stores due to snow across much of the UK.
The department store said that the increase was “highly respectable” given that many parts of the country were affected by the icy weather and that online trade was brisk as a result.
In the week ending 26 January, the Poole and Edinburgh stores achieved the best sales increases, with sales up 11.9% and 11.3% respectively. Online sales at johnlewis.com rose by 43.8%.
Of the buying directorates, electrical and home technology led the way with a 29.1% increase in sales driven by strong trade in IT, imaging, vision, and small electrical products.
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John Lewis managing director Andy Street said the week completed “an impressive year” with “both bricks and clicks” seeing strong growth.
He added: “Overall, 2012–13 must be seen as a team success, as every area of John Lewis has combined to deliver these sales. Thank you for a job well done. We enter the new year with great momentum, and equally great spring products.”
