Booker in profit windfall
Sales and profits are up across the board at Wellingborough-based wholesaler Booker, it was revealed this morning (13 October 2011).
Total revenue was boosted by 6.5 per cent for the 24 weeks to 9 September, while tobacco sales increased 8.8 per cent.
Pre-tax profit hit £45m, a 22 per cent hike on the comparable 2010 period. Internet sales were also up 22.6 per cent to £300m.
The wholesaler markets its own-brand products as well as the Happy Shopper, Lichfields and Chef's Larder labels.
Over the 24 weeks, Booker said it converted a further 11 branches into its 'Extra' format, taking the total number of 'Extra' branches to 126.
An additional ten are planned for the second half of the year.
Ritter Courivaud and Classic, the two businesses acquired last year, are "performing well", said the company.
Net cash stood at £58.7m on 9 September, an increase on its 2010 level of £10.1m.
Charles Wilson, chief executive of Booker, said, "Our plan to focus, drive and broaden Booker Group is on track. We improved choice, price and service for our customers, which increased sales by 8.5 per cent.
"Ritter Courivaud and Classic, the two businesses we acquired last year, have fitted nicely into the group and the internet and India are making good progress. In a challenging business environment, Booker continues to advance."
