John Lewis saw its sales increase by 12.9% last week as the cooler weather has begun to have a positive impact on trade.
The retailer said the start of the week was particularly strong, with sales softening slightly as the weekend approached.
Tim Harrison, John Lewis director of store development, said: “The milder weather does look to be finally turning and both bricks and clicks are prepared for the seasonal assortment. As the early schools break for half term this week we begin the climb to Christmas.”
The best performances came from the shops in Chichester and Poole where sales increased by 24.4% and 23.3% and respectively. Online sales rose by 31.2% with good traffic conversion.
Sales climbed by 15% in the home directorate with trade in big-ticket items well supported by both pick-up and gifting. Lighting saw a 16% increase while the Christmas shop had a successful launch with sales up 13%.
In fashion sales rose by 12.5% with childrenswear, toys and crafts, and nursery all performing well.
Meanwhile, electricals and home technology increased its sales by 11.9%. Sales of tablets and computers climbed by 17%, helped by a price match early in the week.
