Pet retailer, Pets at Home, has reported a like-for-like sales increase of 1.8% in the first half of its financial year, by its VIP Club, nutrition category and omnichannel business.
Figures show that services like-for-like revenue increased 10.5% and merchandise like-for-like sales increased 1% in the 28 weeks to 8th October, whilst total revenue grow 6% to £404.5 million, with six new stores opening.
Chief executive, Nick Wood, said: "We remain pleased with the growth of advanced nutrition, vet and grooming services during the first half of the financial year, supported by growing maturity in the VIP loyalty scheme.
"Whilst trading in parts of the business has been weaker than expected, the core strategic drivers are performing well and in order to support their growth, we continue to invest in our colleagues and seamless shopping experience.”
As well as new store openings, the retailer also opened 10 Groom Room salons, 15 veterinary practices and two Barkers stores in Ilkley and Marlow. It is also on track to open five Barkers, 20-25 Pets at Home stores, 55 veterinary practices and 55-60 grooming salons.
Adding to his earlier comment, Mr Wood, said: “As we highlighted previously, profit growth will be weighted to the second half, as the strong health and hygiene comparatives ease. Our full year profit outlook is broadly in line with market expectations."
