Booker posts 5.8% sales growth in run up to CMA decision on Tesco merger

Booker Group has posted strong results for the summer with 5.8% year-on-year growth for non-tobacco sales.

In its results released this morning, taking in the 12 weeks to September 8, Booker said its Premier fascia was growing and both Londis and Budgens were performing well.

However, tobacco sales continued to tumble with a like-for-like fall of 9.4%.

As a result of the Competition and Markets Authority review process Booker is undergoing regarding its proposed merger with Tesco, the company said it would not be making forward-looking statements for the duration of the offer period.

Charles Wilson, chief executive, said: “Our plans to focus, drive and broaden Booker Group are on track.

“The competition review of the planned merger with Tesco plc is progressing. We continue to help our retail, catering and small business customers prosper through improving our choice, prices and service.”