City John Lewis singled out for praise

Jun 21 2008 by Tony McDonough, Liverpool Daily Post

LIVERPOOL’S new flagship John Lewis is continuing to exceed initial sales expectations, three weeks after it first opened its doors.

On a national level, the retail chain yesterday reported a 4.4% year-on-year decline in weekly sales but added the Liverpool One outlet was bucking this trend, although it did not give specific figures.

In a statement the company said: “There were a few sparkling jewels, however, with special mention going once again to partners in Liverpool who are coping admirably with the tremendous level of trade we are seeing there.

“Not only are the sales figures impressive but the overall customer experience is being extremely well managed as evidenced by their customer service statistics. What a cracking way to start.”

Nationally, John Lewis said footfall in its out-of-town shopping centre branches came under pressure as consumers cut down on shopping trips amid fears of petrol shortages.

Sales at Cribbs Causeway near Bristol were down by 16.3% in the week, compared with a drop of 3.6% for the first 20 weeks of its financial year, while the figure at Bluewater, Kent, was down 14.6% against 5.9% for the 20 weeks.

The overall 4.4% drop in sales to £45.7m reversed last week’s 2.1% increase and resumes the downward trend seen over the previous four weeks.