John Lewis reports positive end of year sales

John Lewis has reported record sales for the five weeks to 2 January with sales up 15.8% up on the same period last year.

Sales at the department store chain exceeded £100m in four of the five weeks running up to Christmas, including the week ending 2 January.

Like for like sales, which include sales from stores open a year or more, were 12.7% up on last year.

Compared with sales two years ago, total sales were up 16.4% and like for likes improved 10.4%.

The strong results were echoed at the chain’s food business, Waitrose, which saw sales increase by 20.8% for the week ending 26 December, compared with the same week last year. The previous trading week (ending 19 December) sales were up by 16.5%.

Total sales at Waitrose were up by 16.1% for the 13 weeks to 26 December.

Andy Street, John Lewis managing director, says: “We have seen excellent sales during Christmas and Clearance. Customers have responded extremely well to our offer and are clearly motivated by inspiring products, great value and exceptional service. As the year progresses we expect to see a long slow recovery, with the retailers who continue to focus on giving customers what they want prospering.”

Meanwhile high street fashion retailer Next reported that performance in the run up to Christmas was “better than expected” in a trading update for the 22 weeks to 24 December.

Total sales during the period were up 4.6% with like for like sales up 3.2% boosted it says, by a more stable consumer environment and improved ranges as the chain continues to “aggressively back new products and trends.

Next Directory, the retailer’s catalogue business saw sales increase 6.8%.

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