Sales up 9.5 per cent in the past week
Like-for-like sales at the John Lewis Partnership have risen 9.5 per cent in the past week.

At the group's department stores, sales for the seven days to May 13 were up 9.7 per cent on a like-for-like basis.

Large-screen TVs continue to sell well ahead of the forthcoming World Cup, with sales increases of 85 per cent. Womenswear, outdoor living, men's casualwear and sports clothing also had a good week.

However, the group said warm and sunny weather midweek kept shoppers away from stores and 'took some of the pace away'.

At John Lewis-owned grocer Waitrose, the warmer weather increased demand for barbeques, salads and fruit. Sales at the chain were up 9.6 per cent like for like.

The FA Cup final last weekend boosted sales of beer and lager and the retailer's French wine promotion continues to drive sales.

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