Givaudan Results Boosted by Developing Markets

11 Apr 2014 --- In the first three months of 2014 Givaudan recorded sales of CHF 1,087 million (US$1,240 million), an increase of 5.7% on a like-for-like basis, and a decline of 0.2% in Swiss francs compared to the previous year.

Givaudan started the year with a strong business momentum, a full project pipeline and win rates sustained at a high level. Like-for-like growth rates were in line with the company’s mid-term sales growth objectives. Sales in developing markets increased by 9.8% on a like-for-like basis.

Mid-term, the overall objective is to grow organically between 4.5% and 5.5% per annum, assuming a market growth of 2-3%, and to continue on the path of market share gains. By delivering on the Company's five-pillar growth strategy – developing markets, Health and Wellness, market share gains with targeted customers and segments, research and sustainable sourcing – Givaudan expects to outgrow the underlying market and to continue to achieve its industry-leading EBITDA margin while targeting an annual free cash flow of between 14% and 16% of sales in 2015. Givaudan confirms its intention to return above 60% of the Company's free cash flow to shareholders while maintaining a medium term leverage ratio target below 25%.

The Flavour Division reported sales of CHF 571 million, representing 5.8% growth on a like-for-like basis and a decline of 0.1% in Swiss francs.

Sales increased in the developing markets of Africa, China, Eastern Europe, India and Indonesia as a result of existing business growth and new wins. Strong growth continued in Latin America driven by key markets while the mature markets of Asia and Europe showed good resiliency in delivering positive year-on-year growth. Growth was achieved across all segments with particular strength in Beverages, Dairy, and Snacks.

Sales for Asia Pacific increased 10.5% on a like-for-like basis. The developing markets of China, India, Indonesia and Vietnam reported strong double-digit growth. The mature markets of Korea, Oceania and Singapore were above prior year. All major business segments achieved solid growth driven by a steady inflow of new wins and organic growth of existing business.

Sales in Europe, Africa and the Middle East grew 3.5% on a like-for-like basis. The developing markets delivered good growth when compared to the prior year. The mature markets of Western, Central and Northern Europe reported a moderate growth. The overall increase was driven by Beverages and Dairy.

Latin America experienced double-digit growth of 15.4% on a like-for-like basis, continuing on the success of the previous year. Increases in the largest markets of Argentina and Brazil led the way. New wins and growth of existing products in Beverages, Dairy and Snacks leveraged the sales performance.

Sales increased by 0.2% on a like-for-like basis in North America. Strong double-digit growth in Snacks coupled with good gains achieved in Dairy and Sweet Goods were offset by weakness in the Savoury and Beverage segments as result of unfavourable market conditions.