John Lewis sales dip in Scotland

John Lewis yesterday reported a small increase in weekly sales at its department stores, prompting analysts to issue a fresh warning of a slowdown in high street spending.

Sales rose 1.4 per cent, year-on-year, in the week to 19 March. Its Scottish stores recorded falls. IHS Global Insight economist Howard Archer said: "The recent softer performance reinforces concerns that consumers are now significantly reining in their spending."