Makro turnaround ‘on track’

BOOKER Group, the cash and carry food wholesaler, says it is continuing to make headway in its plan to turnaround its Salford-based Makro division.

In a third quarter trading update for 16 weeks to January 2, Booker said its total sales were up 1.4%, while excluding Makro, they were 2.5% ahead. It said its  outlook for profits and net cash for the year remain in line with City expectations.

The company said Makro’s turnaround plan is  on course.  Non-tobacco sales were down 6.5% in the 16 weeks as non-profitable categories were exited. An improved store format has been introduced at nine outlets too.

Booker chief executive Charles Wilson said: “This was a good quarter, with Booker Group continuing to make progress in a challenging market. Our non tobacco like-for-likes were up 2.6%. Our plans to Focus, Drive and Broaden remain on track. We continue to improve the choice, prices and service to catering, retailing and small business customers in the UK.”

Booker has more than 170 outlets nationwide, while Makro has around 30, and unlike its parent company sells some non-food items.