Cadbury's costs are "out of line"

The firm would not comment, however, on media reports that it was planning to slash thousands of jobs and set about a significant restructuring.

Cadbury spokeswoman Dora McCabe said that the plan was part of a regular programme of briefings for investors, but admitted it would be tackling weighty issues of costs and growth.

In July, Cadbury Schweppes admitted its cost base was "out of line" with its requirements.

Since then, it has announced plans to close two factories in the UK and launched a shake-up of its operations in Brazil.