Waitrose sales boosted by Valentine’s Day preparations last week
Waitrose said its sales rose by 1.1% year-on-year last week despite tough comparatives against the equivalent week last year.
As customers geared up for Valentine’s Day, there was surge in sales of chocolate with Valentine’s Chocolate Heart sales jumping by 64% on last year. Premium boxed chocolates were also popular with sales rising by 27%.
Meanwhile, sales of champagne shot up by 51% and sparkling wines by 18%. Waitrose said Charbonnel et Walker Champagne truffles had a “fantastic” week, with sales up 500% year-on-year.
Comfort foods were popular with customers due to the cold weather. Sales of Charlie Bigham’s meals surged by 71% while Indian and Italian ready meal sales were up 15% and 16% respectively.
The colder weather also influenced sales of healthcare products which rose by 9% in the week.
