Housewares Business-to-business magazine for housewares retailers and their suppliers
Sales at John Lewis last week (to July 30) were up 3.4% on last year to £76.6m.
Paula Nickolds, director, commercial, of the department store group, said fashion had “a good week”, up 7.9% on last year, and EHT [Electricals & Home Technology] followed suit with sales up 10.5% on last year. Communication technology and small electricals were the strongest performers, up 25.5% and 25.8% respectively. Audio & connected home also fared well, up 7% on last year.
But it was “a tougher week” for Home, which finished at down 7.2% on last year; “a reflection of the ongoing warmer weather which meant customers’ minds were less focused on big ticket purchases within the home.
“In turn”, she said, “the warmer weather had a more positive effect on outdoor living which stole the show, up 41.5%. Home accessories and gifts were also in positive territory, up 3%”.
