Trading update from John Lewis Buying Director Home

John Lewis had ‘an excellent start to the post-Christmas period’ last week (to January 2), with sales surpassing the £150m mark at 23% up on last year.

The week includes the first day of Clearance in the department store group’s shops, which last year fell into the previous week’s trade.

Home sales were up 17% on last year. Both Furniture and Textiles and Carpets enjoyed their biggest weeks ever, while Beds and Bedroom were up 28% on last year.

EHT (Electricals & Home Technology) finished the week up 24% on the year. John Lewis said some particular highlights were Small Electricals, as customers looked to spring clean and engage in new fitness regimes, reflected in sales of floor care and juicers. Audio & Connected Home was up 23% year-on-year with smart home product sales starting to ramp up.

John Lewis Buying Director Home Christine Kasoulis said: “In terms of channels, it was a very good week for both branches and online. All but one branch beat last year. Johnlewis.com continued its impressive performance at 35% up on last year, with another exceptional week for smartphone traffic. After a strong start, with further markdowns live this week, we’re hopeful for a successful Clearance.”

John Lewis Buying Director Home Christine Kasoulis