John Lewis introduces new premium hospitality experiences in time for Christmas
John Lewis has launched new hospitality destinations in three of its stores in the run-up to Christmas.
The retailer has introduced a new 250 square foot Lanson Champagne Bar in the atrium of Peter Jones in London’s Sloane Square which will run until early January.
In a European first, Warabi-Mochi Kamakura, the Japanese matcha and warabi mochi brand, has officially opened at John Lewis Oxford Street in a 450 square foot space at the entrance to the Waitrose Foodhall.
Meanwhile, John Lewis Southampton has welcomed a new Ori Caffe on its second floor which serves a range of pastries, salads, sandwiches, cakes and sweet treats, as well as coffee and cocktails.
Katie Papakonstantinou, director of services & hospitality for John Lewis, said: “We’re continually looking for ways to enhance the John Lewis experience, and the addition of the Lanson Champagne Bar, Warabi-Mochi Kamakura, and our new Ori Caffe in Southampton is a direct response to our customers’ growing desire to combine shopping with unique and enjoyable experiences.
“We have also recently expanded the Benugo cafes in our Norwich and Leeds stores, and this year also added Ori Caffes in our Liverpool and Solihull stores, and expanded our Ori Caffe in Bluewater – this is a countrywide investment.
“Our growth in hospitality sales over the past year is a clear sign that this strategy is resonating, and these exciting new concepts are central to our commitment to making our stores a true destination – for the festive season and beyond.”
The investment in hospitality is a key component of the broader John Lewis store transformation plan which has just seen the John Lewis Bluewater complete a nearly £10 million refurbishment. Th retailer has also invested in beauty halls in its Liverpool, Solihull, Welwyn and Cambridge stores.
