The company, which has more than 170 branches, posted a 7pc rise in total sales in the 16 weeks to December 30 and said average spend per customer improved during the quarter. On a like-for-like basis, total sales rose by 5.6pc, with non-tobacco sales rising 5.8pc and tobacco sales up 7.6pc. Fruit and vegetable sales rose 17pc.
Booker said its outlook for full-year profit and net cash remained in line with expectations. The company, which began operating in India in 2009, said it would continue to expand in the country, with a second and third branch scheduled to open in Mumbai early this year. The group also plans to launch a new distribution service in Didcot called "Chef Direct" to cater to its food-service customers. This is expected to begin trading in June.
Charles Wilson, chief executive, said: "Amid the challenging economic environment Booker continues to improve choice, prices and service for our customers. "Our plans to focus, drive and broaden the group are on track and we are pleased to be developing Chef Direct."