Department store John Lewis has continued its strong sales performance, showing an increase of 16.6 per cent on the same bank holiday period last year, it was announced today.
Unpredictable weather in different areas of the country contributed to the overall outcome of sales performance. Dismal conditions in the north meant more sales while a short burst of sun proved a deterrent to shoppers in the south.
Gift purchases in customer‘s eagerness of the Queen‘s Diamond Jubilee celebrations have helped to make an improvement in sales despite the lack of overall good weather.
Burgeoning sales of iPads and electricals goods in the Home Technology department outperformed other sectors following the recent digital switchover, accruing an increase of 39 per cent,
The Home Directorate also saw a rise of 11.9 per cent due to popularity of its lighting offering. Figures rose by 36.6 per cent in lighting compared to last year and indoor furniture went up by 17.7 per cent.
Dino Ricos, Operations Director at John Lewis, commented on the continuing consumer interest in electronic goods:
“Digital Switchover and iPads continue to drive growth but it‘s great to see all buying offices showing growth on last year,” he said.
“It is particularly pleasing to see imaging with strong growth, driven by good improvements in stock availability both in branches and online.”
Menswear was the strongest area in Fashion sales, coming out on top with a 6.9 per cent year – on – year growth. This comes at a time when high street retailer French Connection has announced its flagging yearly targets due to a lack of user spending.
Last week also saw the star-studded opening of the new Beauty Hall at the company‘s Oxford Circus branch, creating a hype of interactivity on its social media sites.
Twitter saw a surge of 700 comments in response to the evening as celebrities including Lisa Snowden and Laura Bailey attended the event.
The retailer has also announced today its new partnership with travel company Kuoni, which will see four of the department stores opening concessions stands in the Autumn at Oxford Street, Reading, Southampton and Cardiff, creating 19 full time jobs.
Kuoni will offer travel advice and be set up as part of the John Lewis gift service for newlyweds on honeymoon.
Rob Martin, new business manager at John Lewis has said of the new collaboration: “Kuoni‘s commitment to customer service and expert advice was a perfect fit for John Lewis, and we believe this will be a long-term and successful partnership.
“Our customers want the personal knowledge and expertise of speaking to someone who can help them get exactly what they want from their holiday.“
