Rise in sales for Thorntons
Thorntons has reported a rise in sales as it tries to return to profit. Sales were up 7.8% for the three months to the end of June, compared to a year earlier. That was a rise of £1.8 million to a total of £24.7m.
The rise in sales has been driven by consumer demand for Jubilee and Olympics themed products. Thorntons has cashed in on this with a successful ‘Best of British’ line. The limited edition range includes chocolates in the shape of Union Jack flags and London buses.
Launching such products will help the retailer reduce its reliance on peak seasons, such as Christmas and Easter.
However, Thornton’s sales at its franchise stores were down 24% after the division was hit by the administration of Clinton Cards, which ran 46 outlets.
Jonathan Hart, chief executive of Thorntons, said he was “encouraged” by the performance, but pointed out that this period accounted for less than 12% of annual sales, and he remained “cautious” about the outlook for the coming year.
