Strong UK performance for Nestle
16 February 2012 – Following the publication of Nestlé SA’s global financial results, Nestlé UK & Ireland chairman & CEO Paul Grimwood credited the company’s ability to meet the changing habits of cost conscious consumers for driving the UK business forward. Grimwood pointed to the growing number of UK shoppers who are looking for value for money without sacrificing quality or the occasional affordable luxury. Nestle’s range of trusted brands, that offer both quality and value for money, is ideally positioned to meet this need.
In confectionery, the ultimate affordable treat, chocolate multipacks (+17.20%), blocks (+20.7%) and confectionery share bags (+30%) have seen significant increases.
Grimwood says, “2011 was a strong year for Nestlé UK & Ireland despite the difficult economic climate. UK shoppers are adapting to challenging times, they still want to provide their families with good quality food and drink, and the occasional luxury – they’re just looking for value in the way that they do it. We are helping them by offering brands they can trust, great quality products, value for money, and the occasional affordable luxury.”
“Listening to shoppers and providing them with the quality products they want that deliver real value for money has never been more important.”
“2012 will continue to be tough but our focus remains on developing new products to meet changing demand to drive growth. If we continue to invest in our business and our brands during challenging times we will be in a much stronger position when the economic climate improves.”
“We have announced a £500 million three year investment programme to establish our next generation of world class manufacturing facilities in the UK. This is a real sign of our confidence and commitment in the UK in the long term.”
Other highlights for Nestlé UK in 2011 include continued growth of Nestlé Confectionery driven by the core brands, with exceptional growth from Aero and Rowntrees up 17.6% and 16.8% respectively with Roloup 31.5%. Continued innovations in confectionery including Kit Kat Pop Chocs, Rolo and Aero biscuits, Aero Caramel, and the expansion of the Rowntree’s offering including sour pastilles, jelly aliens, and very berry jellies.
