Greggs has posted a like-for-like sale rise of 2.8 per cent as its summer menu proves popular.

The high street bakery has said its healthier options boosted its sales over the summer period, with sales of salads outperforming sandwiches and pastries.

Despite the positive rise in sales for the 13 weeks to October 1, the rate of growth for the retailer had slowed from 4.9 per cent in the year before.

“The popularity of our summer menu including an extended range of Balanced Choice salads and yoghurts supported sales growth in the period,” Greggs said.

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“We also saw continued strong growth at breakfast time, helped by our strong coffee offer and value deals.”

It now trades in 1743 outlets, adding 103 to its empire in the last year. It has also refurbished a further 145 stores with a target of 200 by the end of the year.

The value bakery added: “As we look to next year, whilst we anticipate some general industry-wide cost pressures, we expect to make further progress against our strategic plan.”

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