Morrisons boosted by strong Christmas trading
Morrisons saw its group like-for-like sales increase by 9.3% in the three weeks to 3 January as customers shopped for Christmas food earlier than in the previous year and spent more on traditional festive fare.
The supermarket said champagne sales were up 64% compared to Christmas 2019 while sales of whole salmon rose by 40%.
The figures mean that group like-for-like sales in the first 22 weeks of the supermarket’s second half have increased by 8.1% after retail like-for-likes increased by 7.2%.
David Potts, Morrisons chief executive, said: “The pandemic has had a severe effect on people and communities around Britain for nine months now but it has been especially hard at Christmas time. I’m very pleased with the way the Morrisons team has helped our customers across the nation enjoy their Christmas in the best way they could – with safe shopping, great service and outstanding stores even in the most difficult circumstances.”
Looking ahead, Morrisons said it still expects its full year pre-tax profit before exceptionals to be in line with expectations despite the continuing impact of Covid-19.
Morrisons said its online trading continues to be strong with sales more than tripling so far in its fourth quarter.
During the 22 week period, the supermarket opened new stores in Helensburgh, Glenfield and Dalton Park.
