Department store rides out World Cup fever
The John Lewis Partnership said that during its clearance period (July 1 to July 22), sales at its 26 UK department stores increased 8.5 per cent compared with the same period last year.

Sales of flatpanel televisions continued to be strong after the World Cup ended, with television sales up 87 per cent during the three-week period.

The group said demand for home furnishings and summer products, such as paddling pools, was especially strong. Sales at internet arm John Lewis Direct were up 77 per cent.

Director of customer services Simon Fowler said: 'This was an outstanding result during a period which was affected by the last stages of the World Cup and exceptionally hot weather.'