FDBusiness.com

Pernod Ricard, the world’s second largest spirits and wine group, has reported a 1% increase in net profit to Eur951m on net sales down 2% to Eur7.08b for the 2009/10 financial year ended June 30th 2010. Organic sales growth was 2%, including a significant 9% upturn in the second half, but the results reflect negative foreign exchange factors and the disposal of the Wild Turkey, Tia Maria and Bisquit brands and the impact of the termination of Stolichnaya distribution.

The French drinks group noted a contrasting global economic environment, which improved during the second half, featuring strong growth in most emerging economies, and a very gradual recovery of consumer spending in the US against a continuing uncertain backdrop. The picture was mixed in Europe with some signs of a recovery but also the adverse impact of austerity measures.

Pernod Ricard’s top 14 brands, which account for 55% of group sales, grew by 2% in volume and 4% in value. Martell (+12%) and Jameson (+12%) achieved double digit growth and seven others continued to grow, in particular The Glenlivet (+7%), Absolut (+6%), Chivas (+5%) and Havana Club (+5%). Conversely, Mumm (-7%) reported a decline, due to the difficulties in the French champagne market. Within the priority premium wine portfolio, Jacob’s Creek sales declined by 5%, reflecting Pernod Ricard’s premiumisation strategy for the brand.

Group profit from recurring operations rose by 4% to Eur1.79b but the operating margin slipped to 25.4% of sales, compared to 25.6% in the previous financial year. Group debt was reduced by Eur1.09b, excluding translation adjustment, during the year.

Pierre Pringuet, chief executive of Pernod Ricard.

Europe excluding France was the region most affected by the crisis, posting a 3% decline in profit from recurring operations. The situation remained difficult in Western Europe (Spain and the UK) even though a number of countries achieved growth, such as Germany and Sweden, and Duty Free markets noted a recovery. In Eastern Europe, Russia and Ukraine reported a strong upturn in the second half of the year but the situation was more difficult for local vodka brands in Poland. Pernod Ricard saw satisfactory 7% growth in its domestic market of France.

Despite the economic crisis, Pernod Ricard managed to keep growing in new economies, and continued with its premiumisation strategy. “Our performance over the 2009/10 financial year was a strong and sound one. Our priorities for the 2010/11 financial year remain the development of our premium strategic brands, a continuing strong marketing investment level, and the reduction in group debt,” says Pierre Pringuet, chief executive of Pernod Ricard.