Even though the gross transaction of value for the first 42 weeks of 2008 was 1,3% higher then last year, John Lewis lost 8,3% in sales last week. On a whole, like-for-like sales went down by 0.6% for the 42 week period. The UK department store received disappointing sales in home and electricals, whilst fashion kept climbing up. Own bought and designer ranges by John Lewis in particular proved its strengths and also its beauty department increased its sales with 20%.
Rob Templeman, Chief Executive of Debenhams, said: “In light of the tough trading environment across the whole UK retail sector, we are pleased with customer response to our new ranges and, as a result, our improving sales performance for the period. The strength of Designers at Debenhams is particularly pleasing. We continue to take market share across our key product categories.”
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Debenhams’ new 130,000 square feet flagship store opened in Liverpool at the end of May and is trading above of expectations. A further two department stores in Dunfermline and Blackpool are due to open before the end of the financial year and five department stores, including White City in October, and two Desire stores in 2008/09.
Debenhams is the second largest department chain group in the UK featuring womenswear, menswear, homeware and health and beauty. Designers at Debenhams include Ted Baker, Jasper Conran, Frost French, Julien Macdonald, John Richmond, John Rocha and Matthew Williamson.