Sainsbury's Tu clothing reports strong sales growth in H1

Sainsbury’s reported that own-brand Tu clothing sales "grew strongly, helped by increased full price sales" over the half-year period to 18 September 2021.

The supermarket reported that its clothing business remains strong, with sales up year-on-year and year-on-two years, despite competitors reopening. It has also reduced promotions and grown full-price sales.

Online fashion sales were up 70% on a two-year basis, with customers updating their wardrobes as COVID-19 restrictions lifted - with womenswear and seasonal clothing performing particularly strongly.

General Merchandise sales at Sainsbury's reduced by 5.8% versus H1 20/21, as expected against strong lockdown and seasonal sales comparatives, but grew 1.1% versus H1 19/20.

The company also saw strong digital sales of £5.8 billion, consistent with H1 20/21 at 39% of retail sales.

Looking at Sainsbury's sustainability commitments, the supermarket confirmed it is ahead of trajectory on its Net Zero target and has accelerated targets for Scopes 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emission reductions from 2040 to Net Zero by 2035. It has also committed to reducing its Scope 3 emissions by 30% by 2030.

By the end of 2021 Sainsbury's will be sourcing 100% electricity from renewable sources and all of its supermarkets will have 100% LED lighting installed.

Simon Roberts, CEO of J Sainsbury plc, said: “Whilst customers are returning to many pre-pandemic shopping habits, online sales have remained very strong and we continue to grow market share. At the same time, our plan to transform Argos is on track, delivering significantly improved profitability.

“I’m really proud of my colleagues for the outstanding job they continue to do for our customers in such exceptional circumstances. Our teams have worked tirelessly over the past eighteen months and to say thank you we are closing all Sainsbury’s and Argos stores on Boxing Day this year to give colleagues an extra day to spend with friends and family.

“Our industry faces labour and supply chain challenges. However our scale, advanced cost saving programme, logistics operations and strong supplier relationships put us in a good position as we head into Christmas. I would like to thank all my colleagues and all our suppliers for their hard work, commitment and dedication in the weeks ahead to ensure we deliver the best possible Christmas for our customers.”