John Lewis records sixth sales decline
- Published: 27 June 2008 08:29
- Author: Laura Weir
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- Last Updated: 27 June 2008 09:21
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Sales at John Lewis have declined for the sixth time in seven weeks, but fashion sales boosted business.
John Lewis saw sales drop by 1.2% to £45.5 million for the week ended June 21. However this was an improvement against the previous week.
Fashion buoyed John Lewis' performance with sales of the category up by 7.2% over the week. Womenswear and branded men's clothing were both strong performers.
The only store that recorded positive sales growth was London Oxford Street.
Shopping centre and out of town stores continued to under perform with Milton Keynes down 12.7%, Bluewater down 11.4% and Cribbs Causeway down 7.8%.
John Lewis managing director Andy Street said: "The June trading month finished as we expected, with a headline score below the rain-sodden return from 2007. So with four months of the year behind us, our sales progress has been trimmed back to 1.2%, a clear reflection of the more challenging environment."
Street added: "This weekend we face the first half's Clearance peak. Exceptional value will be on offer, and with the national mood for 'bargain hunting', I'm confident we will trade well."
