John Lewis sales up 3.5% last week
John Lewis increased its sales by 3.5% year-on-year last week as trading continued to be influenced by warmer weather and the later fall of Easter this year.
Fashion sales climbed by 7.5% with warm weather clothing significantly up on the corresponding week last year. Sales in the womenswear and menswear categories rose by 14.2% and 8% respectively. Fashion accessory sales surged by 18.2% driven by strong trading in the sunglasses category.
Home sales were down 2.9% as sales of larger items were impacted by the warm weather, although sales in the outdoor living category jumped by 92.3%. Like-for-like sales of Easter related gift food were up 9.1% year-on-year. Best sellers included a Prestat Gin & Tonic Easter egg and a chocolate hen on edible grass.
Electricals and home technology sales were up 6.9% as trade was boosted by new product launches. Sales in the tablets and computing category were up 13.3%.
