Diageo reported that premium drinks volumes had increased by 5% in the six months, with net sales growth of 11% and an increase in operating margin of 1.2% percentage points to 21.7%.The global priority brands saw a 9% increase in volume with net sales rising by 15%.
UK: Spirits bolster Diageo as Burger King profits slump
UK-based drinks and food giant, Diageo, reported pre-tax profits of £1.228 billion for the six months to the end of December, a marginal improvement on the £1.189 billion last year, in line with analysts' forecasts. The first half results were hit by a 29% fall in earnings at the group's fast food business, Burger King, but the spirits division performed strongly, Diageo said.