UK beauty retailer Boots has reported strong sales for its Ireland business in the 17-month period to August 2015 as revenue hit EURO453.2m and operating profit reached EURO24.3m, thanks to strong online sales and new store openings.

The Walgreens Boots Alliance-owned company opened five stores during that financial period – while closing one – while also noting that the customer loyalty scheme also remained a key element of its offering and the fact that lower dispensing reimbursement rates also partially offset its performance.

Directors suggested that the company’s ability to be flexible to changing consumer demand is highly developed.

According to the Directors, as told to The Independent.ie, “Its strategy remains to enhance its market leading position in pharmacy-led health and beauty retailing in the Republic of Ireland, backed by differentiated brands and expert customer service.”