Waitrose sales surge following back-to-school season

Sales increased 5.6% to £127.19m in the week to September 3. In the five weeks to September 3, sales rose 4.5% when compared with the previous year.

The week was, on average, five degrees warmer than the same week last year and boosted sales of ice cream and salad, up 37% and 20%.

Waitrose marketing director Rupert Thomas added: “This was accompanied by demand for products in the promotional ‘Half Price Event’ - which covers a wide range of cleaning products and groceries.

“For many the start of the autumn term sparked back-to-school preparations with an upsurge in sales of snacking foods and children’s drinks.”

“For many the start of the autumn term sparked back-to-school preparations with an upsurge in sales of snacking foods and children’s drinks.”

Waitrose marketing director Rupert Thomas

John Lewis sales rose just 0.8% to £87.5m during the week, despite the back-to-school surge. That’s a 0.6% increase over the five weeks.

Fashion sales fell 0.9% while childrenswear, nursey and haberdashery was up 7.1%.

John Lewis shop trade director Maggie Porteous said: “Electrical and home technology sales were up 5.5%. Mobile phone sales continue to be a key driver, with Motorola models selling particularly well this week, and the Dyson Supersonic hairdryer is still on our bestsellers list.

“In home, sales were down 1.9%, although furniture continued its strong run-rate at 4.3%. Our own-brand ranges continue to show real strength, with House performing incredibly well on the back of a promotion, and our latest range, Design Project, also posting a strong week for sales.”

Overall, the partnership generated £214.69m, an increase of 3.6% in the fifth week and 3% in the five weeks.