Sales up at department stores and Waitrose
John Lewis reported strong sales growth last week despite the unseasonable wet weather.

Like-for-like sales at the department store chain were up 16.6 per cent for the week to May 20.

Electricals and home technology remained the strongest division, with television sales accelerating towards a record level ahead of the World Cup. Sporting goods also continued its strong run. The group described men's and women's fashions as 'busy' and said Father's Day ranges were beginning to build sales.

By contrast, the group said the cold, wet weather 'took the shine off sales' at supermarket chain Waitrose. However, like-for-like sales were still up 10.4 per cent for the week and 9.1 per cent for the year so far.

The grocer's trading highlights included Jersey royal potatoes and asparagus. The French wine promotion also continued to push sales.

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