Retailer Jollyes has announced a 19% increase in like-for-like sales for the first half of its financial year.
Total sales grew by 31% in the six months to November 27, 2023, boosted by new stores in Swindon, Belfast, Merthyr Tydfil, Harrogate, Widnes, Swadlincote, Reading and Hull.
Turnover for the first half reached £70m, and the company expects to open its 100th store ahead of schedule in early 2024.
At the same time, the retailer announced a number of new partnerships designed to support future growth, including its first ever TV advertising campaign, scheduled to air in Northern Ireland in March 2024.
Further initiatives include a £25m three-year deal with United Petfood to grow private label ranges, the extension of its logisitics contract with Wincanton allowing transition to a new logistics hub at Middlewich, Cheshire, in early 2024, and a new partnership with street currency charity BillyChip to support the homeless and their pets. Jollyes will become BillyChip’s first partner outside of the food and services sector.
Commenting on the half year results, Jollyes’ chief executive officer Joe Wykes said: “There’s no doubt we’ve had a tremendous six months, delivering for customers, our people and our shareholders. And as always, behind the numbers sits the hard work of our 1,000-plus strong team as we transform this business with real pace – they continue to inspire me every day.
“But we also all know past performance is no guarantee future success. That’s why we’re determined to guard against complacency, investing in new partnerships that will help strengthen our momentum in the months and years ahead.”
