Waitrose sales edge up 1.1% last week
Waitrose saw its sales edge up by 1.1% excluding fuel last week despite tough comparatives with the same period last year and continued food price deflation.
The warmer sunshine mixed with overcast and showery spells boosted sales of outdoor plants which the supermarket said had a “stellar” week. Lupins proved particularly popular following their appearance at the Chelsea Flower Show.
Sales of sun care products were up 25% while ice cream sales rose by 18% year-on-year.
Meanwhile, English wine enjoyed a surge in sales due to Engllsh Wine Week, with demand up 103%.
Other items achieving buoyant sales included British asparagus and Jersey Royal potatoes.
The warmer weather also helped cider sales to jump by 25%, while the popularity of the supermarket’s gin showcase helped to increase sales by 57% on the previous year’s event.
