Greggs is still on the rise as bacon butties help boost business

In the latest results announced from the company, total sales are up by 5.7% in 2016 so far, just below the rate at the same time last year.

Like for like sales during the same period are also up by 3.7%, although that's lower than the 6% recorded this time in 2015.

The firm has also confirmed it has completed refits on 55 of its shops, and while it has opened 43 new counters, it has closed 21.

The North East firm has credited breakfast, hot sandwiches and ‘Balanced Choice’ options for driving its growth, with consultation under way on how it can invest in its supply chain.

The figures from Greggs Plc have been released ahead of the its general meeting tomorrow.

As part of its statement, the company has said the improvements in its shops and range of products has helped drive sales up, especially its hot sandwiches and, bigger breakfast menu.

The introduction of a flat white coffee has helped give it "double-digit growth" in sales of hot drinks.

Its greater choice of fresh fruit and trials of its upgraded range of salads, which meet its 'Balanced Choice' standards, with options including teriyaki, chicken noodle and falafel with houmous highlighted as innovative.

In addition to the shops it has already refitted, it plans to improve around 145 more by the end of the year, with the addition of seating also helping to draw in customers.

So far this year it has opened 43 new shops, including 23 franchised units in transport locations, and closed 21, giving a total of 1,720 shops

As part of a £100million investment plan, it plans to close three of its bakeries, with Sleaford now being shut down, with plans to close its Twickenham base later this year, followed by Edinburgh next year.

The company statement said: "Our people impacted by these proposals have demonstrated their commitment and professionalism during a difficult period and our focus now is to work with them individually to ensure that we manage these changes in line with Greggs’ values as a responsible employer.

"Alongside these closures we will continue to develop our plans to invest in our remaining supply chain network over the next five years in order to create centres of excellence serving our growing shop estate."

It added: "We have made a good start to the year. Input cost inflation remains low despite increased wage costs and, with a strong pipeline of product initiatives and plans to

invest in our shops and supply chain, we expect to make progress in line with our previous expectations."