Takeover target soars

A SALES boom at convenience stores has helped boost Booker ahead of its takeover by Tesco.

The firm is the UK’s largest wholesaler, supplying thousands of products from frozen food to tobacco to outlets around the country.

Like-for-like sales rose 3.8pc during the 16 weeks to December 29.

It also owns the Premier, Budgens and Londis store brands, and yesterday bosses said all were performing well.

Booker’s £3.7bn takeover by Tesco has met opposition due to fears it could mean prices rise, but competition officials have waved through the deal.

Tobacco sales fell 2.1pc, but that was offset by a deal to supply Shell and MRH petrol stations, starting in December. With tobacco excluded, likefor-like sales rose 6.2pc during the period.

Chief executive Charles Wilson said: ‘We continue to focus, drive and broaden our business to improve choice, prices and service for our customers.’