Wholesalers are still growing despite recession
Monday, 16th February, 2009
"Wholesalers Landmark and The Today's Group are continuing to prosper even though the credit crunch has turned into recession.
Landmark Wholesale is said to have enjoyed a "healthy" 2008, with sales up by 4.7% over the previous year. Chilled and frozen foods were ahead by 22.5%,and despite "tough market conditions" the alcohol and tobacco categories both grew sales.
Cider sales were up by 13.9% and cigarettes were ahead by 6.6%.
Martin Williams, managing director at Landmark Wholesale, said the figures have given the wholesaler "great confidence" for the new trading year.
"This sends a very positive message to the rest of the industry that Landmark Wholesale, our members and the independent sector as a whole is still in growth and therefore an exciting and dynamic sector to be in," he said.
The Today's Group said 2008 was its best trading year since 2003, with value sales up 12.7% and volume sales up 9.1%. The licensed category grew by 15.8% in value terms, while general grocery was up 12.5%, impulse category sales up 8.2% and non-foods up 17.1%.
Trading director Nick Barker, said the wholesaler's birthday celebrations and its "very robust" trading package were the main reasons for growth"
Talking Retail 13th February 2009