JOHN Lewis staff are said to be on “cloud nine” after the £18 million superstore reported strong sales in its first month.

Independent traders close to the new £150 million Bond Street complex have also seen a sharp increase in sales, due to more footfall.

But shops further afield, largely in Moulsham Street, reported financial stagnation since opening.

Laura Rawstron, John Lewis store manager, explained how more than 65,000 customers hit the shop in its first three days of trade.

She added: “We couldn’t have asked for a more marvellous reception from the local community - everyone at John Lewis Chelmsford has been on cloud nine as we've welcomed new visitors through our doors.

“I am so proud of the performance of our Partners.

“We’re all determined to keep up this momentum and judging by the growing numbers, I’d say the hunt for the perfect festive gift is already well underway.”

Popular independent café Acanteen, in London Road, has seen its profits spike by 10 per cent, however independent traders in Moulsham Street said things are pretty much the same.

Emma Odell, Acanteen boss, said: “We feel that people are travelling from further afield.

“We have seen a 10 per cent increase in trade overall.”

David Meadows, owner of Jems in the Parkway, just off of Moulsham Street, said: “There seems to be no benefit to trade at this end of town from the traders I have spoken to.

“I have spoken to about ten other traders.

“But there is more people going up and down the street, who could be going to John Lewis and the rest of Bond Street.”