John Lewis profits boosted by online sales

Online sales have boosted profits at John Lewis, as the company saw a rise of 11.5% in sales to £63.58m in the week to June 16. The department store group stated “despite our ever-challenging weather we delivered another great week’s trade”.

Johnlewis.com was up 38.4% and all categories achieved double digit growth through the channel.

Sales of fashion in-store at John Lewis grew 1%, whereas elsewhere fashion on the high street dropped by 1%. The retailer said clothing was “influenced by a mixed bag of weather and reductions in the latter part of the week that turned customers’ attention back towards summer fashion”.
Womenswear and menswear slipped in to negative territory although the overall performance was buoyed by accessories and beauty.

The company stated over 50% of its portfolio stores increased sales figures over 2011, with stores in Poole, Croydon, Tunbridge Wells and Knight & Lee outperforming the portfolio.

John Lewis director, selling operations, David Barford said: “As we move into this week, our Clearance in both shops and online should provide a compelling offer for our customers.”

Image: John Lewis womenswear