Jerónimo Martins has reported preliminary sales growth of 11.5 per cent (at constant exchange rates) to €10.9 billion for the year ending 31 December 2012. The Portugual-based retailer faced a "sharp fall in consumption" in its home country, while growth in the food retail sector slowed in Poland, but its main banners managed to display "relatively strong and sustained performances."
On home turf, Jerónimo Martins' Pingo Doce banner saw 2.4 per cent sales growth, while like-for-like sales dropped 0.6 per cent, in a "resilient" performance which saw the retailer achieve its aim of increasing market share. Wholesale banner Recheio posted flat sales.
The group's Polish business, Biedronka, which represents 62 per cent of group sales, reported like-for-like sales growth of 6.4 per cent, to €6.7 billion. This represents an 18 per cent jump in sales in local currency, aided by the enlargement of the store network. 263 new stores were added in 2012, bringing its total to 2,125 outlets. Additionally, over 1,700 Biedronka stores were revamped during the year with an emphasis on fresh produce. (14 Jan)
© 2013 - ESM: European Supermarket Magazine by Kevin Kelly
