He says: “Booker Wholesale with Makro, our cash and carry division, had a good quarter. Customer satisfaction improved and performance was in line with expectations.
“We now have 11 combined Booker/Makro sites and these are working well. Our delivered wholesale businesses Booker Direct, Chef Direct, Classic and Ritter had a good quarter, while sales in India are continuing to make progress.
“Our balance sheet remains strong with a net cash position. As previously announced, we are today (July 8th) seeking shareholder approval to implement a capital return to shareholders of 3.50 pence per ordinary share at a cost of approximately £62m.
“As previously announced, the UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is currently considering the Londis and Budgens acquisition and we will update shareholders when the CMA stage one review is complete.”
Wilson adds: “Booker Group continues to make good progress. Our plans to focus, drive and broaden Booker Group are on track. We continue to enhance choice, price and service for our retail, catering and small business customers.”
Stuart Hyslop, Booker Group Catering, says: "We have come through our first quarter with a solid performance and our caterers have rewarded us with our best set of satisfaction results to date.
“By focusing on the areas that matter most to our customers over 90% of caterers are prepared to recommend us to a friend or colleague.
“We will continue to listen to our customers in Quarter 2 and I am confident that we can continue to support them to grow their business."
Booker Group remains on course to meet expectations for the year ending 25 March 2016.