P208 CEEFAX 2 208 Wed 12 Jan 22:16/20 WHITBREAD BASKS IN FROTHY FESTIVE SALES Brewer and leisure group Whitbread has reported frothing December sales despite shutting many of its pubs and restaurants early on New Year's Eve. In a trading statement the company said December's profits grew faster than sales, but did not give detailed data. Since the end of August, sales at Whitbread Inns increased steadily, as have its leisure clubs and hotels. Chief David Thomas said: "As expected, H2 of the financial year is proving more positive than the first." 1/2 Headlines 200 Commodities 246 Savings 250 Front page 100 Next News TV/Radio Exchanges Main MenuP208 CEEFAX 2 208 Wed 12 Jan 21:28/59 VARDY ACCELERATES DESPITE CARS CONCERN The UK's biggest car dealer claims it has beaten the "Rip Off Britain" campaign by offering special deals. Reg Vardy sold nearly 16,000 more vehicles in the H1 ending October 31, compared to the same period last year. This was despite a bid bz the Consumers Association to get drivers to boycott showrooms until car prices are brought in line with Europe. Vardy's H1 pre-tax profits rose to £14.5m from £12.3m last year. Turnover rose from £567.1m in 1998 to £667.4m. 2/2 Headlines 200 Commodities 246 Savings 250 Front page 100 Next News TV/Radio Exchanges Main Menu