The John Lewis department store saw its sales decline by 2.8% last week compared to the corresponding week last year.

Home sales were also down, falling by 5.9% . However, the retailer’s House by John Lewis range was popular as students bought items for the return to university next month.

The department store business posted a 7.1% fall in sales of home products the week before last too, indicating a pattern of behaviour, but believes consumers are still refreshing their homes with decorative touches, as sales of rugs jumped 17%, whilst mirrors and art were up 4% and 6% respectively.

Meanwhile, electrical and home technology sales edged up 1.3% as new launches encouraged customers to upgrade their televisions. The large electricals category also had a good week with sales rising by 6.5%. In addition, sales of range cookers climbed by 20% and single ovens by 31% as customers took advantage of a half price installation offer.