John Lewis weekly sales up 21.9%
John Lewis saw its weekly sales rise by 21.9% last week, as trade was boosted by strong trade in electrical goods and by the launch of the new Microsoft Office.
When compared to the same week in 2011, sales increased by 27% with like-for-like sales up in every shop.
John Lewis said that in light of the heavy snowfall a year ago, this year’s figures were somewhat flattered so that a comparison with two years ago gave a more accurate picture.
The retailer added that five shops put in “fantastic” performances with sales up 36% on last year in Croydon, 30% in Nottingham, 29% at Trafford, and 28% in Norwich and Solihull. A total of 27 branches achieved double-figure increases, with the rise in footfall leading to a 15% uplift in the retailer’s food halls and in-store restaurants.
Never Miss a Retail Update!Online sales at Johnlewis.com rose 36.4% driven by strong trade in electrical products.
Electricals and Home Technology was the best performer of the three buying directorates with sales up 46.7% on last year. The rise was driven by strong trade in tablet computers as well as cameras, headphones, small electrical, white goods and accessories. Sales were also boosted by the launch of the new Microsoft Office.
Fashion sales were particularly strong in the branches last week, rising by 13.5%. Sales of the spring and summer new merchandise was up 25% while handbag sales surged 40%.
Home saw double-digit growth on all main buying areas except for furniture, with lighting recording its best-ever spring week with an increase over last year of 20%. Overall Home sales were up 10.2% on the same time last year.
John Lewis saw a 10% uplift in sign-ups to its wedding list service following a promotion. Nat Wakely, director, Selling Operations, Region A, John Lewis said: “We hope the ‘Love’ theme continues in the next few days for Valentines.”
