Booker revenues hit by falling tobacco sales The firm, which runs more than 170 branches supplying convenience stores, restaurants, pubs, schools and prisons, said on Wednesday its total sales rose 1.7pc in the 12 weeks to June 22. While non-tobacco sales increased 3.9pc, tobacco sales fell 1.7pc, with demand adversely impacted by a rise in duty. Group like-for-like sales also increased by 1.7pc, down from a rise of 4.8pc in the fourth quarter of the previous year. Although inflation is easing British consumers are still being squeezed by meagre wages growth and Government austerity measures designed to cut record debt. Shares in Booker, which have increased by 20pc over the past six months, closed on Tuesday at 87.5p, valuing the business at £1.51bn. In May Booker purchased the loss-making UK cash & carry operations of German retailer Metro in a £140m cash and shares deal.