Ahold Delhaize announced consolidated sales results for the fourth quarter and full year of 2017. For the quarter, the company reported net sales of €15.8 billion for the fourth quarter of 2017, an increase of 1.6% at constant exchange rates compared to the fourth quarter of last year. Overall the business delivered a solid performance in the fourth quarter, resulting in a net sales growth of 2.5% on a pro forma basis, at constant exchange rates. Pro forma net sales of €15.8 billion, up 2.5% at constant exchange rates. Comparable sales up 0.6% at Ahold USA and 1.5% at Delhaize America. Strong sales performance in the Netherlands with comparable sales up 6.0%.

For the full year 2017, pro forma net sales reached €62.7 billion, up 1.7% at constant exchange rates.

For the full year 2017, the company expects pro forma underlying operating margin for the group to be 3.9%, in line with guidance. Free cash flow delivery is expected to be significantly ahead of expectations, due to improved working capital performance, capital expenditure slightly lower than forecast, and higher dividends from joint ventures.