John Lewis has reported a record week of sales thanks to Black Friday deals.

In the week to 27 November, sales increased by 7.7% compared to the year previously.

Sales in the fashion and beauty department saw the biggest increase at 13.1%, with the deals pulling customers in. Electrical and homeware sales were up by 6%.

John hailed it as the “biggest sales week in our history”

“While it is encouraging to see headline retail sales growth strengthen in November after a weak outturn in October, the quarterly survey continues to paint a gloomy picture of the sector. Business sentiment remains poor, investment intentions are flat, and headcount continues to decline,” said Anna Leach, the CBI head of economic intelligence.

Sales in Waitrose were not as promising as the department store. Sales of non-food items fell by 6.9%, whilst food sales were down by 1.6%.

However, in the run-up to Christmas shoppers did splurge on mince pies and mulled wine, sales were up 43% and 17% respectively.