John Lewis ends half-year on a high

Like-for-like sales at John Lewis department stores rose 9 per cent during the third week of the chain's Summer Clearance.

The group said it was on track to finish the half-year with double-figure increases on last year.

Electricals and home technology was once again the leading department, with like-for-like sales up 26.2 per cent.

In fashion, menswear took the lead, but womenswear also finished ahead of last year.

The worst performing divisions were furnishing accessories and childrenswear, toys and crafts - both posting negative like-for-likes.

The group described supermarket chain Waitrose's week as 'outstanding', with like-for-like sales growing 17.1 per cent.

Branches in holiday areas benefited from a seasonal uplift and the hot weather also helped to boost sales in London.