John Lewis has reported a strong week of sales – a 23.4% sales increase across both shops and online for the division on last year, further flattered by last year's snow disruption.

Home produced the strongest results, with all buying groups on the increase. Furniture growth stood ahead of the rest, supported by beds in particular. John Lewis reports that the return to form was as a result of strong upholstery sales, which also posted some strong forward-order figures.

Every branch posted an increase on a year ago. The 'at home' shops continue to dominate, with the best growth in Tamworth, Chichester and Poole, as well as High Wycombe and Norwich.

The online growth for the week was good with a 16.6% increase – again, Home achieved the best directorate result.