| Updated:
Booker takings rise on increased demand for fresh fruit and veg
Britain’s biggest cash and carry wholesaler Booker reported a sharp rise in second quarter sales, boosted by strong demand for fresh fruit and vegetables.
The firm, which has over 170 branches supplying retailers and catering firms, said yesterday its total sales rose by 7.6 per cent in the 12 weeks to 9 September.
Sales at shops open more than a year were up 5.6 per cent during the period with non-tobacco sales rising 4.5 per cent and tobacco sales up 7.6 per cent. Sales of fruit and vegetables were up 34 per cent.
Booker chief executive Charles Wilson said the company had improved prices and services. “Customers have rewarded us with an increased share of their spend,” he said in a statement.