Clothing up in challenging market, but general merchandise sales dip.
Sainsbury’s has reported an increase in like for like sales in the 15 weeks to January 6 – including a record Christmas week for the retailer.
Total retail sales were up 1.2% (excluding fuel) and like for like sales increased 1.1%.
However, while general merchandise and clothing grew market share in what Sainsbury’s described as ‘challenging conditions’, general merchandise declined 1.4% during the period, although clothing increased 1%.
Mike Coupe, group chief executive officer, commented: “We’re pleased with our performance across the group this quarter. We had a strong Christmas week, with record sales, over 340,000 online grocery orders and stellar growth in Argos Fast Track delivery and collection. Online accounted for 20% of the group’s sales during the quarter.
“General merchandise and clothing grew market share in a challenging market. Argos stores in Sainsbury’s supermarkets performed particularly well and Argos saw record sales across the Black Friday period.”
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