UK department store giant reports sales rise

British department store chain John Lewis today said sales rose 6.3% last week as all but six of its outlets posted year-on-year gains.

The biggest improvement was seen at its Newcastle store, with a rise of 11%, followed by Southampton at 10% and Glasgow with a 9% upturn.

All three of the company's merchandise areas grew sales in the week to last Saturday, with fashion up 12.5% and electricals ahead by 2.9%. Home merchandise was also stronger, up 4% amid strong demand for office furniture.

As well as strong trading at its 27-strong department store business, the retail bellwether said online sales jumped by 29% - the best of the year so far.

At grocery business Waitrose, which is also part of the John Lewis Partnership, sales remained strong after a 9.9% rise in the week.

Products benefiting from the unseasonal weather conditions included fresh soups, hot pies and Yorkshire puddings and gravy.