Majestic sales rise 2.8% in first half
Majestic Wine increased its like-for- like sales in its retail stores by 2.8% in the first half of its financial year as the retailer also grew its market share.
In the 26 weeks to 29 September, total group sales also rose by 2.8% to £133.8 million.
However, group profit before tax fell to £8.5 million from £9.5 million in the previous year after Majestic invested in infrastructure, technology and consumer insights to support future growth.
During the period, the retailer increased its market share by 0.1% to 4.3%. The growth was supported by significant increases in wines such as Picpoul from France, Malbec from Argentina, and Rosé from Provence.
Never Miss a Retail Update!Majestic grew its number of active customers by 1.9% to 643,000 while the average spend per transaction rose to £130 from £127 in the previous year.
Online sales climbed by 12.3% to £12.9 million, and now represent 10.8% of UK retail sales. In addition, there was a 4.9% rise in sales to business customers.
Majestic chief executive Steve Lewis said: “Majestic has a compelling proposition with a differentiated model, strong customer service ethos and a clear strategy to deliver growth. The 2015 financial year is one of investing to put in place the building blocks to deliver future growth and shareholder value and we are progressing to plan.”
The retailer opened four new stores in the period and also relocated its distribution centre to a larger and more modern facility.
