Trading Update for the 10 weeks to 28 August 2015

Following yesterday’s decision by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) to clear the acquisition of Londis and Budgens in Great Britain, Booker Group has brought forward its September trading update.  This update relates to the 10 weeks to 28 August 2015.

Booker Group, the UK’s leading wholesaler, had a good period with non tobacco like-for-like sales up 0.5%.  Tobacco sales have been depressed by the ban on small stores displaying tobacco products.  Total sales in the 10 weeks to 28 August were down 2.0%, with tobacco 6.5% lower and non tobacco up 0.1%.

Booker Wholesale with Makro, our cash and carry division, had a good period.  Customer satisfaction improved and profit performance was in line with expectations.  Our delivered wholesale businesses Booker Direct, Chef Direct, Classic and Ritter also had a good period.  Sales in India are continuing to make progress.

Our balance sheet remains strong with a net cash position as at 28 August 2015 of approximately £110m.

Booker Group remains on course to meet expectations for the year ending 25 March 2016.

Charles Wilson, Booker Group Chief Executive, said:

“Booker Group continues to make good progress.  Our plan to Focus, Drive and Broaden Booker Group is on track.  We continue to improve choice, price and service to become the best supplier to caterers, retailers and small businesses in the UK.  We are pleased that the acquisition of Londis and Budgens has been cleared by the CMA.  This will help strengthen our support for independent retailers throughout Great Britain.”

Booker Group will announce its interim results for the 24 weeks to 11 September 2015 on Thursday 15 October 2015.  A presentation for analysts will be held at 08:30 on 15 October.  For details call Charlotte Evans at Tulchan Communications on 020 7353 4200.

Notes:

1.   Sales are stated net of value added tax

2.   Sales in the 10 weeks to 28 August 2015 have been compared to sales in the equivalent 10 weeks to 29 August 2014