Greggs has announced a modest rise in like-for-like sales for the third quarter – and confirmed plans to sell its popular sausage rolls nationwide through Iceland.

Sales were up 0.8% on a like-for-like basis in the 13 weeks to 1 October, with total sales for the period up almost 6%. Over the year to date, sales are up 4.6%.

In its latest trading statement, Greggs confirmed that its frozen sausage rolls will be sold in 700 Iceland stores nationwide following a successful trial in 10 shops.

Chief executive Ken McMeikan said Greggs’ new £16.5m bakery in Newcastle had now commenced production, leading to increased efficiency and future growth. The high street baker now has 1,540 outlets in the UK and serves six million customers a week.

“In a tough environment, we have increased our investment in promotional activity, offering a range of outstanding meal deals that help our customers to make their money go further,” said McMeikan.

“We continue to see good growth in breakfast sales, including the roll-out of Fairtrade coffee to all our shops. In addition, the launch of our new Superstar Doughnuts has been extremely popular, with more than 1.4 million sold in the first five weeks.”

Meanwhile, Ian Durant is to join the Greggs board as a non-executive director, replacing Bob Bennett. Durant is a board member at brewer and pub operator Greene King.

Read more
Hang on a Moment: Greggs goes all posh (30 September 2011)
Sales up at Greggs despite ‘tougher than expected’ first half (9 August 2011)
Greggs and Iceland pair up to sell frozen sausage rolls (4 July 2011)