Italian supermarket group Esselunga reported H1 sales of EUR4.79 billion, up 1.3% YoY. EBITDA fell to EUR376.2 million from EUR412.2 million, reflecting the absence of a prior-year loyalty campaign benefit, while operating profit declined to EUR173.3 million and net profit fell to EUR95.3 million from EUR120.8 million. The retailer invested EUR165.8 million during the period and opened two new outlets in Milan. (Esselunga)