GROWTH19 Jan 2012 11:53
Jonathan Hart, Thorntons' Chief Executive, commented:
"Overall sales grew 0.6% in an extremely tough retail environment. While this was below our expectations, we nevertheless sold more chocolate in the quarter than ever before, reflecting the continued strength of the Thorntons brand with our customers and the growth in market share in the Commercial channel. Our online business performed well over the period. The continued decline in sales from our Own Stores and Franchises was consistent with the wider retail pattern experienced in the High Street. Our new products were successful and our Christmas ranges sold through well. We ended the period with minimal excess stock.