3rd Aug 2006 07:02
Morrison(Wm.)Supermarkets PLC03 August 2006 Pre-close Sales update Morrisons is pleased to provide a sales update in advance of its interim resultswhich will be announced on 21st September, 2006. Sales in the 25 weeks to 23 July 2006 have been good and continue theencouraging trend reported at our final results in March and at our AGM in May. • Like for like sales increased by 6.6% (4.6% excluding fuel). Like for like sales in core Morrisons continue to improve, as they have in the converted stores, including those that are now in their second year of conversion. • Sales generated through new space contributed an additional 1.9% (1.9% ex fuel). • Total sales increased marginally by 0.1% (decreased by 2.2% ex fuel), reflecting the impact of the significant store disposal programme undertaken last year. • In the 9 weeks since we reported at the AGM like for like sales have increased by 7.5% (6.1% ex fuel). Commenting on trading, Sir Ken Morrison, Chairman said "The board is pleasedwith the progress being made towards the delivery of our Optimisation Plantargets; in particular our goal to improve gross margin by 90bps over 3 years,which is being delivered ahead of plan." For further information: Media: Gillian Hall Public Relations Director01274 356804 Citigate Dewe Rogerson:020 7638 9571 Simon RigbySarah GestetnerJonathan Clare Investor Relations: Niall Addison Investor Relations Director07764 624701 This information is provided by RNS The company news service from the London Stock ExchangeRelated Shares:
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