 Sales of Smirnoff contributed to Diageo's strong performance |
Drinks giant Diageo has unveiled a rise in profits, buoyed by strong sales of spirits in the US. Pre-tax profits before one-offs rose to �1.24bn in the six months to December, up from �1.19bn during the same period last year.
Across the globe, the US was the best performing market, with a 7% rise in like-for-like sales despite warnings.
But in Europe, sales were flat as demand for ready-mixed drinks continued to suffer, with revenues slumping 23%.
On the brands front, Smirnoff vodka, Johnnie Walker whisky, Captain Morgan rum and Jose Cuervo tequila drove sales.
But, while Guinness was popular in the US, sales slipped 2% - including a 3% drop in the UK and a 2% dip in Ireland - with Diageo blaming a weak beer market and the hot summer for the slip.
One-Minute World News 
News services
E-mail this to a friend 
Printable version 