Booker has converted its 100th depot to its new Extra format.

The branch in Reading, Berkshire, is the latest warehouse to be given an overhaul with the distinctive orange colour scheme.
As part of the revamp, Extra branches are given extended opening hours and improved customer facilities, as well as updated ranges and new layouts devoting more space to key lines and greater use of full pallet displays to improve efficiency.

Booker claims it has increased customer numbers by 17,000 in the past year, with 13,600 of these joining at Extra branches. The company plans to convert 20 depots to the new format during the 2010/2011 financial year.

According to its first-quarter trading statement, the wholesaler grew turnover by 4.9% in the 12 weeks to June 18, with tobacco sales up by 5.5% and sales of other products up by 4.5%. Sales to Premier retailers were up by 9% during the same period.

Retail sales director Steve Fox said: “This is a very encouraging performance considering that three major multiples reported results for the first quarter at between zero and 1% growth.”