Jameson export volumes up 8% in H1

Irish Distillers has reported “quite sluggish” growth in its domestic market here, posting volume growth of just 1.1% and value growth of 2.3% in the six months to 31st December 2015 in a statement which follows in the wake of Pernod Ricard’s H1 results published earlier today.

Spirit sales in the on-trade showed good growth of 2.7% in value nationally, driven by city centre accounts across the country performing well, stated IDL.

“This is due to strong tourist trade and a growing interest in cocktails and Irish whiskeys by domestic consumers,” stated the company.

Jameson led this growth with an 8% increase in value while the other brands in IDL’s premium whiskey range also performed well, it stated.

 

Exports
Exports of Jameson performed strongly for the first six months of the company’s fiscal year to 31^st December increasing sales by 11% and volumes by 8%. The top performing markets lie in the US, South Africa and Russia.

Prestige whiskey brands such as Redbreast, Green Spot and Midleton Very Rare posted volume growth and value growth of 30% and 32% respectively.

Commenting on Irish Distillers’ half-year results, IDL Chairman and Chief Executive Anna Malmhake warned, “While we celebrate this global success, we are now more than ever focused on the challenges in our home market. The current environment in Ireland is very difficult for indigenous producers.

“Irish Distillers is fully committed to tackling alcohol misuse. However, the current legislative proposals contained in the Alcohol Bill are a disproportionate and ineffective response and will have unintended consequences. A stable and supportive home market is the foundation for export success.”

In the six months to December 31st Pernod Ricard announced a 6% rise in pre-tax profits to €1.44 billion on sales of €4.96 billion, up 3% organically on the same period last year.