Companies: DOM   

Domino's said like-for-like sales in the 15 weeks to 14 April rose 20%, prompting analysts to increase their profits forecasts yet again. This figure compares with a 7% growth rate in the pizza delivery market as a whole, according to research firm Mintel. Overall, 'system sales' grew 29% to £33.1m in the period, as the company opened seven outlets, taking its total to 244. Paul Hickman, of house broker KBC Peel Hunt, retains a target of 32 openings this year, as the company heads towards its grand target of 500 outlets. Despite the royalty to its parent company increasing from 2% to 2.5% this year, Hickman upped his pre-tax profit forecast for 2002 from £3.3m to £3.8m. Predicted earnings per share rose 9% to 4.9p - for growth of 25%. The shares - at a year-high - catch a pretty hefty rating. This is well-earned, given that the business is sound, growing fast and well prepared to continue that way.