5% sales growth in H1 for Diageo Ireland
It’s net beer sales rose by 3%, driven by the launch of Rockshore lager and the continued growth of Hop House 13, partially offset by a 3% decline in Guinness Draught, reports the company. In spirits, net sales experienced double-digit growth largely driven by Gordon’s and Baileys.
At £6.9 billion, reported overall net sales at parent company Diageo plc were up 5.8% with organic growth partially offset by unfavourable exchange. Reported operating profits were up 11% to £2.4 billion, driven by organic growth, according to the company. Organic operating profits were up 12.3%, ahead of topline growth.
All regions contributed to the broad-based organic net sales growth of 7.5%, with organic volumes up 3.5%.
Diageo’s beer sales throughout Europe were driven by strong performances from draught Guinness, continued growth of Hop House 13 lager and the successful launch of Rockshore lager in Ireland.
Net sales of its Smirnoff brand in Europe grew 1% “driven by growth in Great Britain and Ireland partially offset by a decline in Continental Europe”.
