Housewares Business-to-business magazine for housewares retailers and their suppliers
Total sales, excluding petrol, nudged up 2.6% for supermarket chain Waitrose in the week to June 21.
Waitrose commercial director Mark Williamson said: “Our performance against the equivalent week last year is measured against very tough comparatives.
“Despite England’s exit from the World Cup, sporting celebrations continued with sales of pizza up by 13% and sales of world beers increasing by 82% compared with last year. Snacks did well too, with sales of crisps increasing by 15%.
“As the summer of sport focus moves towards tennis, customers started to get ready for Wimbledon. Sales of strawberries are predicted to double during the tournament compared to other weeks. Sparkling wines were up by 21% and ice-cream also increased by 22% compared to last year. Sales of meringues were also up by 90% on the same period last year, while sales of tortes increased by 45%.”
He also noted that the warmer weather resulted in more alfresco dining: customers bought 153% more charcoal compared to last year. Sales of beef and salads were also up by 10% and 9.5% respectively.
