Booker reports sales growth of 4.3%
Booker's total sales (excluding Makro) rose by 4.3% in the 12 weeks to 14 September 2012, compared with the same period last year.
In the 24-week period to 14 September, total sales (excluding Makro) rose by 3.3% on the same period last year. On a like-for-like basis, sales rose by 3.1%.
Booker chief executive Charles Wilson said: "Booker Wholesale and Booker Direct have had a good start to the year as we continue to improve choice, price and service.
"We are confident that, once we have clearance from the competition authorities, Booker and Makro will be able to improve choice, prices and service for caterers and small business in the UK."
Makro was acquired on 4 July and until the OFT competition review is complete is required to be managed as a separate business from Booker.
Booker Direct, the delivered wholesale division, and Ritter Courivaud, the speciality foods business, also performed well.
Mark Aylwin, managing director of Booker Direct, said: "Ritter-Courivaud has delivered a good quarter, with particular success coming from the fresh offer, and Classic Drinks has forged ahead with the opening of five new sites in the South.
"Although the market remains challenging, we are working hard to deliver an exceptional service for our customers and are excited about winning new business in the future."
As at 14 September 2012 net cash was £70m, compared with £59m a year ago. Following a good first half, the outlook for the year as a whole remains unchanged.
By Lisa Jenkins
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