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Boots has seen retail sales exceed pre-pandemic levels as it delivered strong growth for Q4 and the full year ending 31 August 2022.
The group said its performance “significantly” contributed to a 65% increase in full year adjusted operating income for WBA International.
Its sales results in the period were largely driven by its continuing performance in beauty, health and personal care, as well as its new online healthcare services.
As a result, Boots.com reportedly maintained its gains made during the pandemic with sales now up over 100% compared to Q4 of 2019.
The pharmacy brand’s flagship and travel stores also saw a boost in footfall, while multiple heatwaves and a return to travel led to a ‘two bottle summer’ for sunscreen, further driving Q4 sales.
In healthcare, Boots Online Doctor is in growth as demand for ‘pay as you go’ healthcare services accelerated. Boots is also said to be supporting the NHS in providing vital healthcare services, including its winter flu jab service across almost 2,000 stores.
In addition, Boots saw retail healthcare sales up nearly 14% in the quarter, driven by continued investment in own label healthcare ranges, including the launch of Boots first own label erectile dysfunction treatment, and the UK’s first treatment for thrush and BV in a single product.
Sebastian James, managing director of Boots UK, said: “This is a really encouraging set of results. I am especially happy to see more and more customers choosing Boots over others, and our market share rising as a result. In addition, I am pleased with the progress we are making in quickly introducing new beauty brands and our healthcare services supporting the NHS.
“We know that cost of living will be a big consideration for everybody and we have frozen 1,500 prices, launched Boots everyday with excellent products for as little as 50p, and massively expanded our Price Advantage scheme.”
He added: “Finally, I want to say a huge thank you to the 50,000 plus Boots family who have made this great performance happen.”
