Northern Foods reports sales growth - graduate jobs

Northern Foods has reported positive sales results, boosting hopes for new opportunities in the food and drink industry for graduates.

The food manufacturer recorded growth in sales after its rebranded Goodfella's pizza range managed to attain a bigger market share in the UK.

Also, the return of animated character "Vinnie the panda" helped the company to post positive results. The character, which was used in adverts to promote Fox's biscuits, went into hibernation during the World Cup.

In the second quarter to October 2, the Leeds-based firm saw a 7.1% rise in like-for-like sales. This compares with a drop of 1.6% in the previous quarter.

According to Northern Foods, a 10.9% increase in bakery like-for-like sales, and a decline in the recent sales falls in the frozen foods division, lead to the turnaround.

The rebranded Goodfella's pizza range boosted its market share - from 16.3% in May to 21.1% last month - with the help of its "pizza fairy" advertising campaign.

Like-for-like sales in the frozen division were down 16.2% in the second quarter as year-on-year figures continued to reflect the company's decision to end certain retail contracts in order to boost margins.

In the chilled foods division, like-for-like sales were up 16.4% in the second quarter after a continuing strong performance in ready meals and from sandwiches and salads following contracts wins with British Airways and Costa Coffee.

Northern added that a restructuring meant its factories were well placed to cope with competitive conditions in the key autumn and winter period.