John Lewis launches new virtual Christmas shop for consumers

Earlier this month John Lewis announced a £635m pre-tax loss for the half-year period ended July 2020.

The department store chain is allowing shoppers to ‘walk-through’ its flagship Oxford Circus store and see emerging trends for the Christmas period. 

John Lewis has also revealed that customers are shopping for Christmas earlier than ever this year and that the stores Christmas sales are now up 112% compared to the same time in 2019.

Sales of Christmas trees and decorations have risen by 232% and 156%. 

Earlier this month John Lewis announced a £635m pre-tax loss for the half-year period ended July 2020. 

The loss was largely linked to customers buying less profitable items during lockdown, such as toilet paper or electronic devices. 

Dan Cooper, partner and head of Christmas at John Lewis and Partners said: “We know that Christmas might look a little different to our customers this year, with smaller celebrations at home and video calls to loved ones.

“Our customers are planning earlier than ever to revel in the festivities and likely spread out the tasks to avoid any last-minute rushes. 

He added: “This year we have created a Christmas shop that will of course delight and inspire our customers but we have also focused on making it a simple journey that means they can tick off their list happily and safely.”