Total sales at Waitrose rose 7.2% year-on-year over the week to 13 April. However, the chain stated that comparisons were continuing to be distorted by the different fall of Easter compared to last year.
Waitrose highlighted that with Easter weekend in sight, sales of its Easter chocolate ranges were “strong” with its chocolate avocado egg and Heston from Waitrose chocolate teapot proving particularly popular. Sales of hot cross buns pushed bakery sales up by 31% for the week, and lamb sales were 20% higher.
The chain also saw a boost in wine sales for the week, as customer took advantage of its 25% off six bottles offer.
Overall, sales in the ambient category were up 10.8%, whilst sales in Chilled, Fruit, Veg & Hort., Bakery, Meat, Fish, Frozen and Dairy rose 3.9%. Sales in the Home & General Merchandise category increased 2%.
Meanwhile, sales at sister chain John Lewis were up 4.8%, boosted by Easter promotions.
Fashion sales rose 10.4% as shoppers prepared for the warmer weather. Home sales increased 6.9%, although Electrical and Home Technology sales were down 2.4%.
