New John Lewis Cardiff store 'huge success'

Strong growth in womenswear and beauty "bodes very well" for the run-up to Christmas, the retailer reported. Fashion assortments "stole the show" - four out of five merchandise groups notched up double-digit growth.

Home technology also did well, with surging TV sales demonstrating the wisdom of staying focused on core strengths, according to director of operational development Andrew Murphy.

John Lewis Direct was up 30%, while on the stores front there was strong performance from Trafford and Sheffield. Bluewater and Cheadle also posted well above average results.

Murphy said of the Cardiff opening: "The impressive maiden contribution from our stunning new shop should be a source of pride for everyone associated with the creation and operation of that business".

He added: "The months ahead will provide different challenges amid what will likely be less frenetic times as the shop settles to a more routine pattern of trade".

John Lewis's grocery stablemate Waitrose posted a 12.4% year-on-year sales rise to £83 million, thanks in part to a rush for picnic food as shoppers took advantage of the late summer sun.