John Lewis experience bumper week

The John Lewis Partnership, which is seen as a barometer of British retailing, has experienced its biggest ever weekly sales figures despite the recession.

In the week to December 5, the chain reported sales of £102.4 million - up 13.8% on the same week a year earlier and nearly £1 million more than the previous record set in 2007.

The renowned employee-owned department store and owner of the Waitrose supermarket chain said it is expecting strong sales over Christmas.

The first Saturday of December is traditionally one of the busiest weekends on the High Street as consumers spend their November pay and start their Christmas shopping in earnest.

Meanwhile, John Lewis said demand for gifts including the cuddly Gruffalo, Biscuit the animatronic dog, electronic games and traditional board games helped the group achieve the record sales.

The retailing giant said: ”Reports from branches across the country show clear signs that, having bought furnishings and furniture in advance of entertaining guests, customers are turning to selecting gifts and preparing for a family Christmas at home.”

The company also said it had seen a 100% increase in sales of Monopoly and other board games.

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