John Lewis customers turn to winter assortments

A drop in temperature across the country last week (to November 8) prompted John Lewis customers to turn to winter assortments at the department store group.

Sales were up 5.1% on last year, with the top shop being Exeter, up 18%; along with Poole (up 14.4%), Stratford City (up 11.2%), Southampton (up 7.3%) and Norwich (up 6.3%).Online sales were 17% up on last year.

Home sales posted strong sales at 9.2% up year-on-year. Bedding was 10% up year-on-year along with faux fur bed throws, up 36% week-on-week, and Dreamland electric blankets, up 85% week-on-week. Bedroom furniture increased by 31% and sofa beds by 12% week-on-week.

John Lewis selling director, Group L & S David Barford said: “The week saw the launch of John Lewis’ Christmas advert [featuring Monty the penguin, pictured, and his friend Mabel] which has received over 16 million views on social media. The advert racked up 7 million views on social media in 24 hours; seven times as many as at the same point last year. By the end of the week ‘Monty’ became the most searched for term on our website. Our shops have become home to ‘Monty’s Den’, where people can meet Monty and Mabel using interactive technology.”