Dairy milk brand whips up sales for Cadbury's

Cadbury said nine per cent growth in sales of the famous brand and an even better performance by its chewing gum and Halls cough sweets contributed to a seven per cent expansion in confectionery sales.

The firm recently revamped Dairy Milk by integrating it with some of its formerly separate brands such as Caramel.

Cadbury's market share in the UK had increased by 10 per centage points to 31.3 per cent.

The group employs more than 50,000 including 7,000 at eight UK sites, such as its factory at Bournville, in Birmingham.

The group's Green & Black's organic chocolate, a stand-alone business, was growing strongly, markets in Europe were weaker. particularly in France where the retail market remained challenging and overall food prices were falling.

Cadbury said underlying profits before tax increased to £370 million in the 24 weeks to June 19 from £350 million a year ago.

Chief executive Todd Stitzer said the company had seen a strong start to the year thanks to increased investment in growth and a focus on innovation.

"Although the external environment is likely to remain challenging, we will continue to increase investment behind long-term growth and expect to deliver within our goal ranges for the full year," he said.

As well as Dairy Milk, its chocolate brands include Roses, Flake, Crunchie, Double Decker, Picnic, Turkish Delight and Boost. In addition to Trident, the group also produces Dentyne and Bubbas.

However, it generated more than 80% of its sales and profits outside the UK in the first half.

It said Halls sales were lifted by an exceptional cough and cold season in the US and gum markets continued to grow strongly.

Sales of Trident lifted by 15% while sales of Halls increased by 17%.

The group's drinks business, which makes Dr Pepper, grew sales by 4% on a like-for-like basis, with continued market share gains in carbonated drinks in the US and strong growth in Mexico and Australia.

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