German retailer Rewe has booked a 3.5% increase in sales for 2010, with domestic revenue outpacing growth overseas.

The company said today (25 February) said that total sales rose to EUR39bn (US$59.6bn) during the 12-month period, up from EUR37.7bn in fiscal 2009.

Sales were boosted by its operations in Germany, which booked gains of 4% despite the ongoing “difficult environment” facing Penny discount stores, Rewe said. The group indicated that it was particularly “pleased” with its German supermarket business, which it said performed above the industry average with sales rising 6.4%.

Total international sales were up 2.2% and Rewe highlighted the performance of its Austrian business. International supermarket sales were dented by the disposal of the company’s Billa stores in Poland and rose 1.2%, Rewe added.