French drinks giant Pernod Ricard has recorded a 'solid performance', with growth driven by its top brands in a 'less favorable macro-economic environment', according to the company.
Pernod's top 14 brands grew by 5% overall, with strong growth from Jameson whiskey - up 17% - and Martell, which increased by 15%. Absolut grew by 5%.
Malibu sales declined, however, and despite record growth from whisky brand Glenlivet - up 22% - the group recorded an overall slowdown in Scotch whisky.
Total full-year sales hit €8.58 billion, with organic profits up 6% to €2.32 billion. Mature markets were described as 'stable' by the drinks company, while emerging markets recorded double-digit growth, despite a slowdown in China.
Buoyed by strong sales in Asia, premium wines rose by 2%, with Spanish brand Campo Viejo posting a 10% increase.
Eastern Europe enjoyed strong sales growth of 11%, offsetting a 3% decline in Western Europe, excluding France, which the company attributed to poor performance in Southern Europe and Spain in particular. The company pointed to 'initial signs of improvement' in the region and said that marketing initiatives for Absolut, Havana Club and Beefeater had helped prevent further losses,
With 'particularly poor' spring weather, France saw a decline of 7% despite "very good results" from several premium drinks brands such as Havana Club.
“Despite a less buoyant environment than that of last year, we achieved our guidance. Our global and balanced exposure to emerging and mature markets will allow us to seize all opportunities. We therefore remain confident in our ability to pursue our growth", Pierre Pringuet, vice chairman and chief executive of Pernod Ricard said.
Additionally, the company revealed plans to use platforms such as mobile apps and photo-sharing social media site Instagram. It also plans to invest in further NPD for its Malibu and Absolut brands.
Last month Absolut revealed a major revamp of its flavoured variants in a move described by Pernod Ricard as their 'biggest and most transformative design project ever'.
© 2013 - ESM: European Supermarket Magazine by Ellen Lunney
