Pernod posts 11% sales and 20% net profit increases

Pernod Ricard has announced an 11% increase in sales and a 20% increase in net profit for the six months ending December 31, 2011.

The French-based global premium drinks company reports a dynamic sales (+11%) driven by its top 14 global brands improved margins and accelerated profits growth (+17%).

Key figures:

- Sales: € 4,614 million (+8%, organic growth +11%), driven by the Top 14 (+14%(1)) and emerging markets (+18%(1));

- Advertising & promotion expenditure: up 8%(1), representing a stable A&P to sales ratio;

- Profit from recurring operations: € 1,379 million (+14%, organic growth +17%);

- Group share of net profit from recurring operations: € 843 million (+16%);

- Group share of net profit: € 800 million (+20%);

- Continued strong deleveraging: Net Debt/EBITDA ratio(2) of 3.9 at 31 December 2011 vs. 4.4 at 30 June 2011.