The retail sector is at the forefront of Christmas festivities, with everything from fashion brands to department store giants preparing for their busiest season.

While some shops offer an enriched in-store experience through late-night shopping and seasonal sales, Waitrose and John Lewis have rolled out an alternative offering.

Shoppers will rejoice over an exciting update from the retail duo: a new sit-down experience will be available in several stores.

John Lewis Partnership is expanding its collaboration with Caffè Nero by opening coffee shops in some department stores and supermarkets.

It’s a new addition here to stay, too, so customers can reap the benefits of in-store dining beyond Christmas.

Loyal Waitrose shoppers who hold a My Waitrose card will know that the free coffee offer was scrapped in 2018 but was reintroduced in 2021 due to customer demand.

In addition to the free hot drinks machines available in 320 Waitrose outlets, John Lewis Partnership has now introduced the first sit-in cafés in England to further develop the relationship with Caffè Nero.

Daily Business reported that the coffee will be served by baristas and has already been rolled out across four Waitrose supermarkets and one John Lewis store.

The participating locations include Waitrose in Billericay, Godalming, Keynsham, Locks Heath and Stroud, plus the John Lewis store at White City, West London, which welcomed a Nero outlet last week.

Branches offer a blend of Nero Roasting Company’s coffee and the upmarket retailer’s food menu to complete the shopping experience for customers.

Waitrose commercial director Charlotte Di Cello told the Times: “Our stores are hubs for local communities across the country and we know our customers love to have the option of enjoying a coffee, snack or meal after their shop.”

It comes just in time for the busy Christmas period, which could boost sales for the John Lewis Partnership.

The retailer reported a two percent rise in sales to £5.9billion in the first half of 2024 and said it was on track to deliver significantly higher full-year profit above the £42million reported last year.

That said, John Lewis has significantly reduced its store portfolio in recent years. Several branches were earmarked for closure in 2023, eight of which closed permanently, while others managed to reopen this summer. This has left the iconic department store with just 34 locations.

While the retailer has escaped further closures for now, the same can’t be said for other high street figures. Clintons Cards, WHSmith, Ann Summers, and Dobbies Garden Centre have all confirmed closures in the coming weeks.  A popular H&M clothing brand and The Original Factory Shop are also set to shut.

Find out the latest updates on UK store closures here.