Saudi food group Almarai had booked an increase in second-quarter profits on the back of a jump in sales, which were up more than one-quarter.

Almarai said net profit rose by 8.7% in the three months to 30 June, while operating profit increased by 7.1% year-on-year.

Profit growth was driven by higher sales in the period, with were up 25.4% compared to the same period last year.

Almarai said revenues were boosted by product development and improved customer service, which allowed the group to book higher turnover in “all sectors” – particularly bakery and poultry.

For the first time, the group also fully consolidated the results from IDJ, in which it holds a majority stake.