Northern supermarket chain Booths has praised its ‘canny’ consumers following a 3% increase in like-for-like sales over the Christmas period.

Despite economic constraints, the quality grocer reported solid sales figures across each of its 28 stores, with a total sales increase of 7.45%.

Whilst two new stores – one in MediaCityUK and the other in Penrith – have contributed to the overall success, trading director Chris Dee attributed the retailer’s success primarily to customer enthusiasm.

He said: “Entertaining has been key to our increased performance. The figures indicate our shoppers threw a great party over Christmas and New Year.

“Sales of premium party food more than trebled. Champagne sales were up 32%, Claret sales up 39% and regional beers saw an increase of 25%.

 “We’ve definitely seen an increase in gastronome purchases, show off dinner party entrees like specialist cured smoked salmon, dressed crab, striploins of venison and three bird roasts met an enthusiastic reception with our customers. It’s clear they were shopping for something exceptional and impressive to serve.”

Chairman Edwin Booth said: “We’ve been mindful that budgets have been tight and kept prices affordable without compromising quality. We have a canny Northern consumer base [which keeps] us on our toes in terms of service, price and quality.”