Department store John Lewis delivered a “remarkable increase” in sales last week, powered by the launch of Apple’s iPad, the build-up to Mother’s Day and warmer weather.
The 35-stores retailer also got an early taste of the boost the Olympics will bring after swimming trials were held at the Olympic Park next to its store in Stratford, east London. Total sales at John Lewis rose by a whopping 20.9% to £63.08 million over the week to March 17, while they jumped by 9% on a like-for-like basis.
Paula Nickolds, buying director for home, said: “Stratford had the opportunity to experience the first glimmers of what the summer could hold, as the swimming trials were held at the Olympic Park and excitement started to build.”
The star performer was electronics and home technology, which grew sales by 53% after the launch of the iPad 3 last Friday.
