Whilst like-for-like sales at Waitrose increased by 1.8%, with operating profit up 15.7%, John Lewis posted a dip. The department store's sales for the same period were down 4.7% with operating profit down 50.9%.
Charlie Mayfield, chairman of the John Lewis Partnership, said that the partnership was pleased with the half year results, but predicted that 2010 may still be difficult, with a ‘slow, drawn out economic recovery.'
The Partnership's net debt rose £148.3m to £580.7m, at the end of the first half. This is in reflection to increased capital investment during the year, which includes the purchase of 13 ex Somerfield stores.
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