Valentine’s Day gift buying boosts sales at John Lewis
Sales at John Lewis climbed by 7% year-on-year last week as trade was driven by Valentine’s Day gift buying.
Fashion sales increased by 2.9% with the biggest growth coming from the women’s accessories and beauty categories. Handbag sales rose by 6.4%.
Electricals and home technology sales achieved a percentage increase of 15.6% boosted by strong sales in tablets and computers.
Home sales were 3.1% up on last year as customers reacted well to the retailer’s big ticket products, particularly furniture. Home accessories and gifts also had a strong week as customers bought items such as jewellery boxes, candles, and gift voucher experience days as gifts for Valentine’s Day.
Dino Rocos, operations director at John Lewis, said: “The week ahead brings with it half term and some colder weather. These two elements combined with strong ‘newness’ in the assortment should position us well.”
