Festive season sales were better than forecast, listed retailer Shoprite said on Friday.

"Sales were better than forecast for the 2008 festive season and Shoprite achieved its budgeted figures for this period," said marketing director Brian Weyers.

He said that luggage, small appliances, glassware and "back to school" items were amongst the best selling items.

In the food category, Weyers said that baked good sold well over the festive season.

He added that Shoprite and Checkers stores sold more than 350 tons of product in its gammon range.

The group also increased its sales of turkey by 10 percent over last year in line with its market share growth.

Sparkling wine sales topped the 570 ton mark for December 2008.

There were, however, shortages of some food products.

"Even though Shoprite and Checkers stores planned well in advance to secure adequate stock, service levels from suppliers remained problematic and were exasperated by high demand experienced over the festive season."

Weyers said that the Shoprite group was expected to publish a trading update on SENS early next week.

Sapa