Boots’ future is uncertain despite solid Christmas sales

Boots said it enjoyed strong sales ahead of Christmas as speculation about its future continues.

Although the latest update does not include December, the chemist said early signs suggested the festive trading period had been ‘solid’.

Sales rose 8.1 percent for the three months to the end of November as shoppers took advantage of Black Friday deals.

The collections from Korean skincare brands Anua and Skin 1004 proved popular, boosting beauty sales by 11 percent compared to last year.

And during Back Friday week, nearly two bottles of perfume were sold per second, including scents that became popular on social media, such as a phrase from singer Ariana Grande.

Anthony Hemmerdinger, who took over as Boots boss in November, said there was “positive momentum behind us”. But he said there was an “increased cost pressure” facing the company after the budget.

The High Street company, which has about 1,800 stores, was among retailers to sign a letter last year warning Chancellor Rachel Reeves that her tax increases could lead to higher prices, job losses and store closures.

Boots’ US owner, Walgreens Boots Alliance, is reportedly in talks to sell itself to buyout group Sycamore Partners, with a deal that could be completed early this year.

A sale is expected to see Sycamore sell off parts of the business, prompting speculation that Boots could list in London.