Conviviality, which claims to be the UK’s leading independent alcohol wholesaler, and which last October absorbed Matthew Clark, increased sales from £364 million to £864 million in the 53 weeks to 1 May.

A spokesman said that earnings before interest and tax “are expected to be marginally ahead of market expectations, and we expect to end the year with net debt of approximately £87 million.”

The supplier, which also recently paid £60 million for the Bibendum wine business, opened 126 more retail stores during the year and closed 34, bringing the total retail estate to 716.

Matthew Clark achieved a 4.9% sales increase.

Tel: Conviviality (01270) 614700