A revamp of operations seems to be working

First-quarter sales at Boots the Chemist stores - which account for about 85% of Boots' profits - grew 5.4%, or 4.4% on a like-for-like basis.

The firm said it was improving its supply chain and store systems as part of an overhaul of the business.

Boots is also cutting prices and extending opening hours as it seeks to counter competition from supermarkets.

"Continued growth in Boots The Chemists shows the positive response of customers to improving value and convenience," said chief executive Richard Baker.

Boots' Healthcare division saw like-for-like sales up by 6.3%, helped by growth in the firm's prescription collection service.

Price cutting helped to lift sales by 3% in its beauty and toiletries side, while the Lifestyle section was boosted by the introduction of a low-carbohydrate Atkins diet food range.