Q2 Trading Update & Notification Interim Results

16 September 2010

Booker Group plc ('Booker')

Quarter Two Trading Update and

Notification of Interim Results Announcement

Total sales in the 12 weeks to 10 September 2010 rose by 6.1% on the same period last year. Non-tobacco sales were 6.2% higher, while tobacco sales rose by 5.9%. On a like-for-like basis total sales rose by 5.9%, non-tobacco sales by 5.9% and tobacco sales by 5.9%. Fresh departments performed particularly well with fruit and vegetable sales up 46% and meat up 10%.

Total sales in the 24 weeks to 10 September 2010 rose by 5.5% on the same period last year. Non-tobacco sales were 5.3% higher, while tobacco sales rose by 5.7%. On a like-for-like basis total sales rose by 5.3%, non-tobacco sales by 5.1% and tobacco sales by 5.7%. During the period Booker was voted 'best cash and carry for caterers' and 'best cash and carry for retailers' in a survey of independent businesses conducted by him!, the retail research consultancy. We were also awarded 'Wholesaler of the Year' by The Grocer magazine.

As at 10 September 2010 net cash was £10.1m versus net debt of £4.0m a year ago. The business is performing in line with management expectations and the outlook for the year as a whole remains unchanged. The interim results will be announced on 14 October 2010.

Charles Wilson, Booker Chief Executive, said:

"Booker is continuing to improve customer satisfaction and sales growth is good. During the last quarter sales were assisted by the benefits of the World Cup, a strong promotional programme and a good performance from Booker Direct. Our plans to broaden the business, including booker.co.uk and our operations in India, are progressing well."

Booker Group plc will announce interim results for the 24 weeks to 10 September 2010 on Thursday 14 October 2010. A presentation for analysts will be held at 08:30 on 14 October. For details call Lucy Legh at Tulchan Communications on 020 7353 4200.

Note: Sales are stated net of value added tax

ENDS

For further information contact:

Tulchan Communications (PR adviser to Booker Group plc)

020 7353 4200

Susanna Voyle

Lucy Legh