John Lewis sales growth 'subdued'

John Lewis has reported subdued sales growth across its department store business in the week to last Saturday.

Figures yesterday revealed a 5.4 per cent year-on-year rise, which analysts noted was one of the softest performances for some time and just half the overall increase of 10.8 per cent in the 14 weeks trading to 6 November. The partnership's Aberdeen store was the best performer north of the Border with weekly sales up 2.4 per cent. Edinburgh takings were 2.8 per cent lower while Glasgow suffered a 3.1 per cent dip.

Helen Keppel-Compton, head of multi-channel content, said: "After a bumper half term, trade was slightly more subdued last week."