John Lewis sales up ahead of Christmas period

The retailer revealed its sales figures for the week ending 14 November as festive sales ramp up.

It said sales for the week were up 1.5% on last year and 15.8% on the previous week, with home sales up 2.8% on 2014.

In the company’s electrical and home technology division, sales were up 1.6% mainly due to the launch of the Microsoft Surface Pro 4 and iPad Pro.

Fashion sales were up marginally as mild weather continued to soften sales of winter wear, however it revealed more men are investing in knitwear.

It also said it showed signs it would be an “omnichannel Christmas”.

“Two thirds of our customers now visit both a shop and johnlewis.com to make a purchase,” the company revealed.

Commercial director Paula Nickolds said the countdown to Christmas has begun.

“Customers are now buying gifts and products to prepare their home for the season ahead.”