Housewares Business-to-business magazine for housewares retailers and their suppliers
Waitrose’s sales figures for last week (to March 14) were boosted by the early fall of Mother’s Day, which resulted in divisional sales, excluding petrol, increasing by 7% compared with last year.
Shoppers prepared to treat their mums with pampering presents, including bath and body gifts and premium toiletries, which were up 54% and 56% respectively, compared to last year. Sales of sparkling wine fizzed, too, up 13%, and pre-packed cake sales increased by 13%. Desserts also had a strong week, up 16%.
The upmarket grocery chain also saw record sales for Mother’s Day cards and flowers. Cards were up 12% on last year and flower sales were up 25% while houseplant sales grew by 34%.
Those preparing for a weekend of sport, including the Australian Grand Prix and Six Nations rugby, stocked up on easy-to-prepare meals. Frozen ready meals topped 8% and soup sales increased by 17% year-on-year.
Waitrose supply chain director David Jones added: “With Easter around the corner, customers have already been enjoying hot cross buns, with sales rising by 30%.”
