30/09/2008

Tesco's 10% Profit Growth Amid Weak Economy

Weaker trading conditions have not refrained Tesco from meeting half-year profit targets - with the supermarket giant today reporting a 10% growth in UK sales.

Adverse market conditions have failed to damage the retailer's performance - amid calls for interest rate cuts and radical moves to stabilise the global financial services industry.

Earlier this morning Tesco shares jumped by around 5.4% - following the announcement on second quarter results.

Over 20 million UK shoppers visit the supermarket chain every week.

And despite being "hard pressed", retail analysis - suggesting the sector is in its worst condition in 30 years - is over exaggerated, according to Tesco boss Terry Leahy.

He told Reuters: "Inflation has passed its peak - and that will leave room for interest rate cuts which I think will be welcomed."

"Also, though, it's important that we get banks back to doing their job, which is to provide liquidity for the real economy and lending at sensible prices," added Mr Leahy.

Deutsche Bank described the slight acceleration in second-quarter UK underlying sales as "solid and reassuring".

Globally positioned as the third top performing retailer - just behind US mammoth Wal-Mart and France's Carrefour - Tesco said profit before tax and one-off items was £1.45 billion in the 26 weeks to August 23, on sales up 14% to £25.6 billion.

The interim dividend was up 11.6% to 3.57p.

Analysis by Cazenove suggested: "The outlook for consumer economies around the world remains highly opaque. However, the company expresses confidence in its ability to thrive in tough conditions - corroborated by these results."

Tesco has aimed to battle the increasing 'credit crunch' by releasing a new range of 400 low-cost products.

Last week's move is expected to maintain the retailer's position in the market

(PR/JM)

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