John Lewis sales impacted by mild weather last week
John Lewis sales dropped by 3.5% year-on-year last week as the mild weather led shoppers to delay purchases of winter clothing and footwear.
Fashion sales fell by 13.1% overall although sales of jewellery and men’s accessories both increased, rising by 1% and 4% respectively.
Home sales edged up 0.6% driven by a 9% gain in furniture, a 7% rise in home accessories and gifts, and 19% growth in beds and bedrooms. Upholstery sales also achieved a good percentage increase at 17%.
Electricals and home technology sales were up 3.6%, with good sales coming from communication technology, electricals, consumer electronics accessories, and tablets. Audio and gaming sales were also strong, rising by 17%.
Online sales growth slowed to 5.6% year-on-year as fashion sales were impacted by the milder weather.
Meanwhile, only a handful of stores achieved percentage increases on last year, the highest of which was 19.2% at the Swindon store.
Johnathan Marsh, buying director for EHT at John Lewis, said: “A milder week for both weather and sales at -3.5% on the year. With children now back at school, thoughts would usually turn to winter essentials; however, the unseasonably warmer days are delaying these purchases. Footfall was restricted on the year due to less promotional activity on the high street.
“Despite the forecast for continuing mild weather, and with Christmas launching online, we are confident that our seasonal assortment will inspire customers to invest in products for the coming months.”
