John Lewis reports level Christmas sales

John Lewis has reported flat sales for the crucial Christmas trading period compared with the same period in 2007. The high street retailer today (January 5) reported an overall 2.4% rise in sales for the five weeks to Jan 3.

In the first of a flurry of statements from key high street names scheduled for this week, the department store group says fashion sales, which include beauty products, rose by 4%, but it saw a 6% drop in its homewares division. Meanwhile, sales of electrical goods, which traditionally do well during the festive period, grew by 10%.

John Lewis managing Director Andy Street says he is “encouraged” by the figures but admitted the “next few months will be extremely tough.”

The retailer is expected to choose a new agency for its £20m account shortly. The review was called by head of brand communications Craig Inglis (pictured) in November due to the “tough economic climate”. Adam & Eve and Miles Calcraft Briginshaw Duffy after pitching for the account after incumbent Lowe London pulled out just before Christmas (MW December 18).