Waitrose sales passed the £4bn mark for the first time in a half-year period, as the grocer outperformed the wider market with growth in both volumes and customer numbers, according to the John Lewis Partnership’s interim results published today.
For the 26 weeks to 26 July 2025, Waitrose sales rose 6 per cent year-on-year to £4.1bn, with like-for-like volumes up 3 per cent. The supermarket also reported its highest-ever customer satisfaction scores and a 9 per cent increase in customer numbers compared with two years ago.
Investment in food quality, stores and technology underpinned the growth. The retailer completed seven major refurbishments, opened a new convenience store and two Welcome Break forecourt shops, and announced both its first large store opening in nearly a decade and a new distribution centre.
Waitrose also saw strong growth in its premium No.1 and Duchy Organic ranges, while 130 new products were launched during the half. Ethical credentials were reinforced with the supermarket becoming the first in the UK to meet the Better Chicken Commitment.
Adjusted operating profit came in at £110m, down £3m year-on-year, with sales and margin gains offset by £22m in new Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) packaging levy costs and higher National Insurance contributions.
John Lewis sales rose 2 per cent to £2.1bn, outperforming a market impacted by ongoing economic uncertainty. Adjusted operating loss was £53m in the first half, down £4m, including incremental non-like-for-like taxation costs of £7m from the new EPR packaging levy and incremental National Insurance Contributions.
Jason Tarry, Chairman of the John Lewis Partnership, said: “More customers are shopping with us, driving sales, and helping Waitrose and John Lewis outperform their markets. We achieved our highest recorded levels of positive customer satisfaction, a testament to the great service of our Partners.”
The Partnership reported total sales of £6.2bn, up 4 per cent year-on-year, with group revenue increasing 5 per cent to £5.4bn. Despite a loss before tax and exceptionals of £34m, the group said it remains on track to deliver full-year profit growth.