Booker sales increase 3.8% in first quarter

Booker has reported a 3.8% increase in total sales for the 12 weeks to 20 June as it continues to re…

Booker has reported a 3.8% increase in total sales for the 12 weeks to 20 June as it continues to reap the rewards of its acquisition of Makro.

Tobacco sales, including Makro, rose 0.7% during the quarter, while non-tobacco sales rose 5.4%.

Excluding Makro, Booker said total like-for-like sales rose 2.9%. Tobacco like-for-likes increased 1.7% and non-tobacco sales were up 3.6%.

However, non-tobacco like-for-like sales fell 12% at Makro depots as it “continued to exit non profitable, non-professional categories.”

In a trading update ahead of its agm to be held later today, Booker said the turnaround of Makro was on track with cash and profits in line with expectations.

“Booker continues to make good progress and this was a good quarter with non tobacco sales up 5.4%,” added Booker CEO Charles Wilson.

“Our plans to focus, drive and broaden Booker are on track. We continue to improve choice, price and service to become the best supplier to caterers, retailers and small business in the UK.”