Booker Group plc
Quarter Four Trading Update
Booker, the UK's leading food wholesaler, is pleased to announce that total sales in the 12 weeks to 23 March 2012 rose by 4.8% on the same period last year, with total like-for-likes up by 4.8%. Non-tobacco like-for-likes rose by 4.1%, while like-for-like tobacco sales increased by 5.9%.
Total sales in the 52 weeks to 23 March 2012 were £3.9bn, up by 7.3%, and total like-for-likes were up by 6.1%. Like-for-like non-tobacco sales rose by 5.1%, while like-for-like tobacco sales increased by 7.8%. Like-for-like sales to caterers rose by 6.1% and retailers by 6.1%. Customer numbers increased by 5% to 481,000 and customer satisfaction improved further. Internet sales increased by 21% to £635m. Our delivered wholesale businesses are doing well and our expansion in India continues following the opening of our second branch in Mumbai.
This year has the impact of a 53rd week. Week 53 increased sales by £76m and will benefit operating profits by circa £1m for the full year.
The Group had around £63m net cash at the end of the year, compared to £27m a year ago. Profits for the 53 weeks to 30 March 2012 remain in line with expectations.
Charles Wilson, Booker Chief Executive, said:
"Booker continues to make good progress. Customer satisfaction for choice, price and service has improved and we are serving 22,000 more customers than last year. This has helped the Group increase sales by over £260m in the past 52 weeks. Our plans to Focus, Drive and Broaden the business remain on track."
