Boots predicts strong Christmas trading

Boots says it's set for robust Christmas trading after revealing increased profits.

Interim pre-tax profits rose by 7.8% to £284.2m.

Turnover increased by 2% to £2.5bn.

Chief executive Steve Russell said that signs are encouraging for strong Christmas sales.

He says: "In terms of profits going forward, progress looks satisfactory, and the early sales of Christmas goods look very encouraging.

"I think we are in good shape, and I think our gift offering is very strong this year."

Health and beauty sales rose by 3.9%, while sales at Boots Retail International increased by 8.5%.

Mr Russell adds that the Boots wellbeing services programme is being rolled out according to plan, and the company is continuing to cut costs.

By the end of September, Boots had opened five Health and Beauty Experience stores; and 49 dental practices.