John Lewis adds new bars and cafes to transform stores into relaxing destinations for customers

While many UK retail destinations have focused on high-energy, "pulse-racing" attractions throughout the year, John Lewis Partnership is taking a different approach for the busy Christmas trading period, prioritizing relaxation and refuelling for its customers. In response to a sustained demand from customers seeking to combine shopping with broader experiences, the department store retailer has introduced three new hospitality destinations within its stores. This strategy aligns with the significant growth observed in JLP's hospitality-related sales, which have increased by nearly 10% over the past year.

The new additions include a 250 sq ft Champagne Bar now open in the atrium of Peter Jones in Sloane Square, offering a premium space for shoppers to unwind. Additionally, John Lewis Oxford Street hosts the first European location of Warabi-Mochi Kamakura, a premium Japanese brand specializing in traditional confections like warabi mochi and matcha. In a move to expand successful existing concepts, John Lewis Southampton has also unveiled a new Ori Caffe, marking the 11th location for the brand across the John Lewis portfolio.

Katie Papakonstantinou, Director of Services & Hospitality for John Lewis, stated that these new concepts are a direct response to customer desires. “We're continually looking for ways to enhance the John Lewis experience, and these additions are a direct response to our customers' growing desire to combine shopping with unique and enjoyable experiences,” she said. Papakonstantinou highlighted that the growth in hospitality sales over the past year confirms this strategy is resonating, emphasizing that these concepts are central to the company's commitment to transforming its stores into true destinations, not just for the festive season but beyond.

This investment in hospitality forms a key part of John Lewis's broader store transformation plan. The initiative follows significant capital expenditure, including the recent completion of a nearly £10 million refurbishment at John Lewis Bluewater, alongside investments made in Beauty Halls across various stores, including Liverpool, Solihull, Welwyn, and Cambridge.