Germany’s second-largest grocer Rewe Group generated group sales of €50.9bn (£45.4bn) in 2009, up 2.7% on the previous year.

The growth was mainly achieved through acquisitions and expansion, as store numbers climbed 5% to 15,453 outlets. In Germany, sales grew 2.6%, while overseas operations grew 2.9%.

The Penny discount division, present in seven countries, increased sales by more than 8%.

Toom BauMarkt DIY stores and ProMarkt electronics superstores increased sales by 2%. Sales at the travel division were down 3.4% on the previous year.