Boots continues its streak of success, marking the 14th consecutive quarter of growth.
- Retail sales surged by 6.2%, primarily due to the strength in skincare and premium beauty.
- Digital sales saw an 18.7% rise, with app usage reaching new heights among 7.5 million users.
- The introduction of over 55 new beauty brands fueled over 6% growth in the beauty segment.
- Pharmacy sales increased by 10%, supported by a surge in demand for both NHS and private services.
Boots has once again demonstrated robust performance with a notable 6.2% rise in comparable retail sales during the fourth quarter. This achievement, largely attributed to the growth in skincare and premium beauty lines, highlights the company’s continued appeal in the health and beauty sector.
Store performance has been strong across all categories, bolstered by increased sales in destination health and beauty, convenience, and flagship locations. Airports also contributed significantly to the growth, indicating a broader recovery in travel-related retail sales.
Digital engagement remains a cornerstone of Boots’ strategy, with digital sales climbing 18.7%, now accounting for nearly 15% of total sales. The Boots app, increasingly popular, reached a record 7.5 million active users, constituting 40% of digital transactions, underscoring the importance of mobile commerce in retail.
The expansion of Boots’ beauty offerings was marked by the launch of over 55 new brands, including those that gained traction on platforms like TikTok, such as Made by Mitchell, and renowned names like Prada Beauty. The introduction of these brands contributed to an impressive over 6% surge in beauty sales.
Boots also reported a 10% year-on-year increase in pharmacy sales, driven by a growing demand for NHS and private health services. Over 150,000 consultations for the NHS Pharmacy First Service in the quarter underlined the crucial role Boots plays in healthcare delivery.
Seb James, the outgoing Managing Director for Boots UK and Republic of Ireland, expressed satisfaction over the results, which reflect the company’s market share growth. With preparations underway for the peak trading period, including the holiday season, Boots is poised for further accomplishments under new leadership.
Anthony Hemmerdinger, recently appointed as the new Managing Director, brings over 30 years of experience in the UK retail sector. His leadership is expected to further the company’s transformation and sustain its growth trajectory.
Boots’ strategic initiatives and strong market performance continue to drive growth, bolstering its position as a leader in health and beauty retail.