UK retailer John Lewis has seen strong sales over the holiday period, both online and in-store, with total sales improving 4.5 per cent on the previous year.

The retailer cited “very strong” demand on Christmas Eve, as well as a confident start to clearance sales, indicating shoppers delayed purchasing to get a bargain before Christmas.

Clothing sales rose by 10.7 per cent on the previous year, with particular growth in women’s accessories (21.5 per cent) and women’s cashmere (10 per cent). Sales in the beauty, well-being and leisure categories also grew by 25.3 per cent.

Apple products performed particularly well in the electrical and home technology categories, which saw sales increase 3.1 per cent over the period.

While home sales fell 2.3 per cent compared to the previous period, gift food grew by 103 per cent, and cooking and dining rose 25 per cent.

The result will come as welcome news to the retailer, who recently unveiled a renewed direction for the business focusing on core customers and better service, as well as differentiation and innovation.

“As retail changes we need to tread a path that enables us to thrive as a business while building on the qualities that make us different,” said departing John Lewis chairman Sir Charlie Mayfield, who announced he would be stepping down from his position in 2020.

“For us, the relentless pursuit of greater scale is not the right course.”

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