Domino's boosted by online orders

Domino's plans to have 1,000 stores

Domino's Pizza has seen strong sales in the UK and Ireland in the six weeks to 30 December, following a surge in online orders.

Overall sales rose 17.6% compared with the same period a year earlier, while sales through its e-commerce platform more than doubled.

The firm also said it expected 2007 full-year profits to beat forecasts.

Chief executive Chris Moore said sales had been helped by innovative new products and better customer service.

Total online sales during for the year to 30 December 2007 rose by 60.5% year-on-year to reach £32.3m.

The firm opened 50 new stores in 2007, taking its total to 501 stores. No stores were closed during the year.

"I'm excited by the prospect of leading this business forward towards our goal of 1,000 stores and to maintaining the momentum of the business into 2008 and beyond," said Mr Moore.