Booker Group's first quarter sales rose by 4% on a year ago, with like-for-likes up 4.2%.
Chief executive Charles Wilson (pictured) said, 'Non tobacco sales grew by 9.6% on a like-for-like basis. Favourable weather and the late Easter assisted this growth. Tobacco sales continued to be adversely impacted by changes in tobacco legislation, down 7.9% like-for-like.
'The Group had a solid quarter for customer satisfaction and cash profit. Booker Direct, Chef Direct, Ritter and Booker India performed as we expected. Premier continues to grow and we continue to make good progress with Budgens and Londis.'
Wilson continued, 'On 27 January we announced the planned merger with Tesco and we are currently going through the review process with the Competition Authority.
'As a result of the proposed merger, we are in an offer period as defined in the Takeover Code and will not be making forward looking statements for the duration of the offer period.'
Wilson added, 'This was a good quarter. Our balance sheet remains strong with a net cash position. Our plans to Focus, Drive and Broaden the Group are on track.
'Meanwhile business as usual is going well as we continue to improve choice, prices and service for our retail, catering and small business customers.'