Housewares Business-to-business magazine for housewares retailers and their suppliers
Sales at department store group John Lewis were down by 0.4% last week (to November 7), with sales growth from www.johnlewis.com up 8.5%.
The week witnessed the launch of John Lewis’ Christmas advert, which brought to life ‘The Man on The Moon’ (pictured). It appeared in branches, online and on TV screens, as well as trending on social media.
Milder temperatures meant fashion sales were down by 0.6%, with cold weather and outerwear assortments challenged compared with last year. However, customers were settling in for longer nights, with nightwear and menswear continuing a strong run.
Home had a slower performance at -1% with textiles and carpet sales performing behind last year. Gift collections and the new games assortment within this category were up compared with last year.
Electricals and Home Technology (EHT) had a stronger week as customers started preparing their home for Christmas, with sales up 0.9% on last year.
John Lewis EHT buying director Johnathan Marsh said: “The vision and large electrical categories performed particularly well, driven by an increase in tumble dryer sales. Our new mobile assortment continues to outperform expectations but the tablet and computing categories remain challenging. We also enjoyed unprecedented demand for telescopes!”
He added: “With our Man on The Moon Christmas advert successfully launched, branches fully decorated and stocked up with Christmas gifting and our best products ready to sell, we are well set to build momentum in the weeks ahead.”
John Lewis’ ‘Man on the Moon’ Christmas advert
