DEPARTMENT store chain John Lewis said sales to last Saturday rose by 2.2% – during the best week of its financial year so far.

Jun 27 2009 Huddersfield Daily Examiner

The retailer said sales were up on five of the seven days, ending with a “brisk” Saturday as shoppers went in search of Father’s Day presents.

Eight stores improved on their performances in 2008, led by the chain’s Trafford outlet after a gain of almost 17%. Stores in Cambridge, London, Sheffield, Newcastle, Reading and Cheadle, Cheshire, were also higher during an “excellent week”.

Fashion sales rose by 10% while the home department improved on recent trading with a fall of 5.7%.