John Lewis has announced a £50 million investment across five stores this year as it continues a long-term programme to transform its physical retail estate.

The retailer will invest in stores in Glasgow, Cambridge, Leicester, Reading and Liverpool, with Glasgow receiving more than £20 million in what John Lewis described as its largest single-store investment in recent years.

The latest investment is part of the company's wider £800 million brand transformation programme, which covers all 36 John Lewis stores.

The retailer said the upgrades will introduce new brands, enhanced product ranges and improved customer experiences while supporting growing demand for destination retail that combines shopping, services and hospitality.

The Glasgow store will undergo a full refurbishment covering its fashion, beauty, home and technology departments. The 28,000 square metre site will remain open throughout the redevelopment, which is scheduled to continue until spring 2027.

John Lewis said customers increasingly expect a seamless transition between online and in-store shopping, while continuing to value services such as personal styling, expert advice and the opportunity to experience products in person.

The retailer also reported changing customer behaviour in its stores. Last year it hosted a record number of appointments across services including personal styling and nursery advice, while hospitality now accounts for more than one in five store transactions.

Alongside store upgrades, John Lewis is expanding its hospitality offering through the rollout of its Platter John Lewis concept. The retailer plans to introduce the format across 32 cafés and restaurants by the end of 2027.

According to the company, previously refurbished stores have delivered sales growth and higher customer satisfaction scores, encouraging further investment across the estate.

“Whether customers shop with us online, in our shops or across both, they expect the same trusted advice, service and experience,” said Peter Ruis, managing director of John Lewis. “We're continuing to invest across our estate so our shops reflect the things customers value most about John Lewis: expert guidance, inspiring products and the confidence to make the right choice.

“These investments are about more than just a fresh look; they are about creating places where customers love to spend their time.”

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