Strategic brands drive revenue growth at Imperial
While cigarette and tobacco giant Imperial has noted 'challenging' conditions in some markets, the group has said that trading in the nine months to September 30th has been in line with expectations.
While cigarette and tobacco giant Imperial has noted 'challenging' conditions in some markets, the group has said that trading in the nine months to September 30th has been in line with expectations.
Tobacco net revenue was up 3% during the period on the back of ongoing strong price/mix. However, stick equivalent volumes fell 3%.
The group noted particular strong performance in its key strategic brands with net revenues up 13% and combined stick equivalent volumes up 6%.
Subscribe to MoneyWeek
Subscribe to MoneyWeek today and get your first six magazine issues absolutely FREE

Sign up to Money Morning
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
"This good performance builds on the positive sales momentum we're generating across our total tobacco portfolio in both EU and Non-EU markets," said Chief Executive Alison Cooper.
"I'm particularly pleased with the quality of the volume and revenue growth we're achieving with our key strategic brands Davidoff, Gauloises Blondes, West and JPS which now account for almost a third of our total stick equivalent volumes."
In Spain, fine cut tobacco volumes were up 19%, though the environment remains challenging with market stick equivalent volumes down 11%. Outside the EU, Imperial noted that Ukranian volumes were down 11% as it continues to be "impacted by illicit trade". Meanwhile, the USA remains "very competitive" and the group is looking to improve its performance.
"Challenging conditions persist in some markets but we have a strong record of delivering growth in this environment and remain in a good position to continue maximising value for shareholders," Cooper said.
The group said that it will continue to challenge what it calls "extreme regulatory proposals" such as plain packaging "which are not based on credible evidence and will only serve to fuel the illegal trade in tobacco."
BC
Get the latest financial news, insights and expert analysis from our award-winning MoneyWeek team, to help you understand what really matters when it comes to your finances.
MoneyWeek is written by a team of experienced and award-winning journalists, plus expert columnists. As well as daily digital news and features, MoneyWeek also publishes a weekly magazine, covering investing and personal finance. From share tips, pensions, gold to practical investment tips - we provide a round-up to help you make money and keep it.
-
8 of the best riverside properties for sale
The best riverside properties for sale – from a Grade II-listed former mill house with views over the River Chelmer in Essex, to a townhouse on a Georgian terrace overlooking the Avon Gorge in Clifton, Bristol
-
Will “Liberation Day” strike again?
Donald Trump’s 90-day tariff pause comes to an end on 9 July. Can we expect further market turmoil?