HEALTH and beauty chain Bootshas revealed a rise in half-year profits.
Pre-tax profits across the Nottingham group for the six months to September 30, were up eight per cent, at £248.9m. Turnover increased two per cent at £2.55bn, but like-for-like sales edged up by just 0.5 per cent.
Chief executive Steve Russell conceded he "would have liked that to be a little stronger".
Some key areas, such as baby products, saw sales fall, but Mr Russell said he was pleased with like-for-like sales of 2.5 per cent for the "all-important" health and beauty product range.
He said both baby and health and beauty ranges would be promoted aggressively in the coming months and early Christmas gift sales were "encouraging".
Throughout the year, Boots has been overhauling the group and trying to claw back costs of about £250m.
It has reduced product ranges, shut unsuccessful ventures and agreed a deal with Sainsbury's that will see Boots open stores in six supermarkets.
Mr Russell said: "We have achieved a great deal over recent months. The cost reduction programme is fully on track."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article