In detail, overall sales rose by £4.3 million, resulting in a total of £323 million. The same-store sales experienced a significant boost of 4.4%, greatly exceeding market expectations. This positive performance underscores Booths’ resilience and strategic positioning in the competitive supermarket landscape.
Notably, sales throughout the year remained robust, despite adverse factors such as peak Easter trading occurring outside the financial reporting period. Additionally, the closure of the Hale Barns store did not hinder performance. Furthermore, Booths achieved record-breaking sales during the Christmas period, with same-store sales escalating by 9.3% compared to an impressive 8.7% increase in 2023 over a three-week trading span leading up to January 4, 2024.
Gross profit also saw an upward trend, climbing by £3.1 million from £32 million to £35.1 million. This increase was primarily driven by rising sales, effectively counteracting the financial impact of annual national living wage increases, which prompted Booths to enhance base pay rates by 8%.
Furthermore, the company’s overall profit before interest and taxation surged by 25% (£0.8 million), reaching a total of £4 million, up from £3.2 million in 2024. Additionally, EBITDA experienced a significant boost, increasing by 16% (£1.4 million) to attain £10 million, compared to £8.6 million the previous year. It is also worth noting that the group loss before taxation improved, now standing at -£0.8 million, an enhancement from the £1.6 million loss recorded in 2024.
In terms of future growth, Booths has committed to continued investment, focusing on an extensive overhaul of IT systems alongside modernization of store formats and renovations. This proactive approach ensures that Booths remains agile and competitive in the evolving retail sector.
Executive chairman Edwin Booth commented on the company’s performance, stating, “We’ve delivered a solid financial performance by remaining true to our purpose to be loved by our customers for inspiring and nourishing their desire for delicious food and drink. Every year brings new challenges to retailing, but Booths continues to thrive with the dedication of our talented colleagues and partners across the business.”
Edwin Booth further expressed appreciation for the team, remarking, “My thanks, as ever, go to our Booths colleagues who remain focused on maintaining Booths as a unique and special retailer, worthy of the title, The Good Grocer.”
