Housewares Business-to-business magazine for housewares retailers and their suppliers
Total sales excluding fuel at Waitrose for last week (to Saturday April 8) were up 7.6% higher than last year.
The supermarket chain said the figure, while distorted due to the fall of Easter, was driven by the hot weather as alfresco dining and summer drinking trends saw positive growth.
According to personnel director Helen Hyde, the sunshine saw shoppers enjoying fresh fruit and vegetables. Seasonal highlights included British asparagus (up 26%) and Jersey Royal potatoes (up 55%).
She added that outdoor entertaining was a popular choice in the balmy weather. Sales of burgers and barbecue coal rose by 33% and 200% respectively, while rosé wine sales increased by 84% and fruit cup brand Pimm’s rocketed by 232%.
