Greggs’ decision to close its in-store bakeries has benefitted its operating margin, as the chain announced a “strong” first half.
In the 26 weeks to July 4th, Greggs saw total sales rise 6.4%, with own shop like-for-like sales up 5.9%.
The company said that its shop refurbishment programme was “progressing well” with 118 refits and 12 café conversions completed.
Roger Whiteside, chief executive said: “"We have had a strong first half with good growth in sales reflecting improvements in our products and the reaction to our shop investment programme. Our offer of great tasting food-on-the-go is being well received by the consumer in market conditions that have remained favourable. In particular we have seen significant growth in breakfast sales as well as from the extension of our "Balanced Choice" range of sandwiches and flatbreads with fewer than 400 calories.
"With the shop refurbishment programme continuing to progress well and new additions to the product range including pizza slices, we are confident of delivering a year of good growth slightly ahead of our previous expectations."
