Family-owned retail chain reports continued strong growth in face of the tough economic climate last year.
According to Wilkinson's latest results, company sales rose 7.4% to £1,556m for the year ended January 2010. The 337-strong retail chain also nearly doubled its operating profits from £31.6m in the previous year to £62.9m in 2009. Wilkinson attributed the substantial increase to "business transformation improvements", including better sourcing and buying and improved stock replenishment systems.
Wilkinson opened 17 news stores last year - all of which feature the new-look branding and layout that is being rolled out across Wilko's existing outlets.
In a joint statement in the company's annual review, family directors Karin Swann and Lisa Wilkinson said: "Despite the very tough economic climate, we have seen our business continue to develop and grow. This is entirely due to the hard work, pride and passion of our team at every level."
Chief executive officer Stuart Mitchell said: "I'd like to thank everyone of our 23,047 team members for their hard work and dedication... The whole business has pulled together and delivered a fantastic result."
Wilkinson's full results will be release on June 30.