Department store chain sees "another excellent week's trading", with home up 15.5% and some stores reporting double-digit growth on 2008 figures.
The pre-Christmas rush continues to boost John Lewis' sales, as the retailer reported a 14.9% growth in sales for the week to November 21. Home was up 15.5% on last year, with furniture up an impressive 32% and seasonal gifts 14% ahead of the same period in 2008.

The company was also encouraged to see sales of its big-ticket items ploughing ahead, with kitchens and large electrical both up 20% of last year.

John Lewis director of selling operations, region b, David Barford said of the results: "I am delighted to report on another excellent week's trading across the division - we beat last year's sales by 15%. Ten branches achieved double-figure increases against their 2008 score, and online sales were up by nearly 36% on last year."

He added: "With the week to date already in double-figure increases against last year, we should have another cracking trading week to celebrate in a few days' time."

Two of the strongest performing stores in the chain were Bluewater, which saw a sales growth of 25.7% and Trafford with an increase of 21.7% on last year. Both branches got a special mention in Mr Barford's comment.