Blakemore sales rise to more than £1 billion

Pre-tax profit of AF Blakemore & Son’s continuing operations rose from £8.5 million to £10.2 million in the year to 30 April on sales up by 4.6% to £1.1 billion.

The latest figures do not include cash & carry, a sector that the company exited in 2018.

Peter Blakemore: ‘This is a tremendous performance.’

Commenting on the results, chairman Peter Blakemore said: “This is a tremendous performance. I’d like to thank all our staff who have worked so hard to help us achieve these results.

“We have continued to achieve positive growth across all channels and have carried out major reviews into all areas of our business to make sure we have the right strategies in place.”

The company recently announced the rental of a 164,850 sq ft site in Bedford.

During the year, Blakemore also invested in upgrading, buying new stores, improving logistics and developing its IT systems. The store expansion included the purchase of 22 Philpotts units.

Blakemore commented: “We are feeling energised and ready to take advantage of all the opportunities available in the rapidly changing market.”

Each year the company sets aside 2% of its income to support the Blakemore Foundation charitable trust. Over the past 12 years it has awarded over £2.6 million via 31,869 charitable donations to good causes championed by staff, customers and the local community.

Blakemore has 281 company-owned SPAR stores and serves 687 independents carrying the SPAR name.

AF Blakemore & Son (01902) 366066