Tesco reports sales boost

Supermarket giant Tesco reported signs of improving consumer confidence today as it geared up for the Christmas sales battle.

The firm’s like-for-like sales, excluding petrol, grew by 2.8% in the 13 weeks to November 28 – slightly below the previous quarter’s 3.1%. Total sales were up by 8.8%.

Tesco has been helped by its double Clubcard points promotion as well as “particularly strong growth” in toys and entertainment goods in the build-up to the festive season.

Chief executive Terry Leahy said: “We are seeing improving customer confidence and encouraging trends in both the UK and our international businesses, although recessionary conditions still exist in a number of markets.”