Booker reports rise in retail sales

Tesco has reported strong growth for its wholesale arm Booker throughout the third quarter as it continue to win independent retailers.

According to latest trading statement released by Tesco this week, total 19-week retail like-for-like sales grew by 4.1 per cent. Retail like-for-like sales (excluding tobacco) grew by 9.4 per cent, supported by biggest ever Christmas campaign with a new programme of ‘Fantastic Festive Deals’ on key lines and even lower ‘Festive Four’ produce prices.

Tobacco sales decline by 4.2 per cent, reflecting continuing market contraction.

Strong execution was seen throughout period with market-leading availability. Further 158 net new retail partners signed up. Booker also opened 119000 sq ft. distribution centre at former Makro site in Fareham, as part of ongoing network redevelopment, offering improved service to Booker retail partners and freeing up additional capacity within existing branch network.

Tesco’s own convenience store brand, Tesco Express, also saw sales increase over Christmas, although not as much as at its larger stores.

Tesco’s large shops saw an increase of 6.8 per cent at Christmas and 7.8 per cent in the the third quarter, while Tesco Express had a 4.6 per cent sales increase at Christmas and 4.5 per cent in the third quarter overall.