John Lewis sales jump 4.7% as it gears up for last minute rush

John Lewis director, operational development Lesley Ballantyne said: “Shoppers are thinking about Christmas comforts this week with only ten days to go until Christmas Day.

“Baking festive treats and adorning homes with comfortable furnishings and convenient appliances is clearly top of shopping lists. Sales of large screen TVs, drinks fridges, bean bags and baking utensils have soared.”

The department store said it was selling one Fatboy beanbag each hour as people prepare the home for festive visitors.

TV watching is going to be top of the agenda in many households this Chritsmas as sales of super-large televisions with screens of over 55 inches up 200% compared to the same week last year.

The retailer said the colder weather had driven sales of scarves, gloves and hats, particularly in kidswear. Children’s snowboots are up 254% week-on-week. Its nursery department had its best ever performance and girls fashion had its biggest salse week last week.

Ballantyne said: “We are now gearing up for a last minute rush, particularly in lingerie and beauty, where many choose to buy their gifts in the final days before Christmas.”