Waitrose makes the most of seasonal uplift
John Lewis reported sales for the week ending October 22, up by 0.6 per cent compared with the same period last year. Online shopping continued strongly and there was a greater interest in its catalogues.

Four of the five top store increases were in the North or Scotland. Aberdeen led the way, with a 5.1 per cent increase in sales year on year. Bristol's Cribbs Causeway was also in the top five.

Electronics continued to lead the way - home furnishings/accessories was the second-biggest sales category, notching up a 0.8 per cent increase over the period.

Trade in furniture, textiles, childrenswear, toys and crafts were challenging. However, upholstery, beds and bedroom furniture all made progress, according to the retailer.

Sales at Waitrose came in at£62 million as autumnal weather lifted turnover. Waitrose director of selling Geoff Salt said: 'Our branches are well set now to capitalise upon the additional trading opportunities that Halloween, Bonfire Night and the Christmas build-up will bring over the coming weeks.'

Topics