What: Despite a shaky year, John Lewis sales rose by GBP 16 million in comparison to 2021.

Why it is important: The change in senior management in its fashion division has helped the category steer clear of the group’s overall troubles.

With a strong new team, fashion sales at the retailer increased by 13.7% in the 2022 fiscal year. The team has streamlined in-house ranges and branded collections to offer customers a new assortment and a reason to buy something new. The retailer launched 251 brands in the last fiscal year with 109 being in the fashion category.

The retailer is trying to move away from the idea of customers coming to them just for basics by giving their in-house brands their own design handwriting. Additionally, they are responding to the changing needs of customers with a big focus on seasonal events and tailoring.

The men’s fashion category was its most successful category, seeing a 20% increase in comparison to last year, followed by a 17% increase in womenswear.

Fashion sales soar at John Lewis despite the company’s losses