Business

Greggs enjoys third-quarter sales rise amid strong breakfast trade

Breakfast trade has boosted performance at food-on-the-go retailer Greggs
Breakfast trade has boosted performance at food-on-the-go retailer Greggs

FOOD-to-go retailer Greggs has posted a healthy rise in third-quarter sales as the sausage roll maker announced the launch of an "all-day breakfast" wrap.

Total sales grew by 8.6 per cent and like-for-like sales rose 5 per cent in the 13 weeks to September 30.

The group recorded particularly strong trade at breakfast time, along with an increase in its healthy eating ranges.

To this end, Thai Chicken Soup will also be added to its menu this autumn, sitting alongside cold-pressed juice and freshly-prepared salads as part of Greggs' "Balanced Choice" options

Greggs trades from 1,830 stores and is in the midst of a shop refurbishment programme that has seen 120 refits.

In the year to date, sales have risen 7.8 per cent and like-for-like sales are up 3.9 per cent.

In August, half-year profits at the chain took a hit from costs linked to restructuring the business.

The group also saw margins hit by higher import costs and said it was remaining alert to the squeeze on consumer spending.

The firm said: "As we have previously indicated, food ingredient cost pressures are a headwind, although we continue to expect that the rate of increase will begin to ease towards the end of the year."