Alliance Boots plans for growth - graduate jobs

Graduates will be on the lookout for jobs at high street giant Alliance Boots as it plans to accelerate its development both in the UK and other markets.

The forward looking plans for expansion were announced as the company reported profits of more than £1 billion for the first time. The plans for further growth came despite "challenging" conditions.

Helped by the launch of products such as No 7 Protect & Perfect skincare range, the pharmacist and wholesaler posted trading profits of £1.07 billion in the year to March 31, up 12.7% on a year earlier.

A series of tie-ups with other businesses are expected to boost revenues. However, the firm expects consumer conditions across Europe to remain "subdued".

Boots is poised to launch a new children's clothing range from Mothercare, and is trialling the sale of health and beauty products in selected Waitrose stores, with the supermarket's food sold in its own outlets.

Executive chairman Stefano Pessina said: "We are increasingly establishing strategic partnerships with other leading businesses to accelerate our development, both in the UK and other markets."

The company - which was taken private in an £11.1 billion takeover in 2007 - becomes the third UK retailer to post profits of more than £1 billion behind Tesco and Marks & Spencer.

The group employs 75,000 staff in the UK, with 2,500 health and beauty stores and 670 opticians.