Nestlé took an even bigger chunk of the UK confectionery market in the first half of the year, as its global results beat stock market expectations.

The Kit Kat and Rolo maker said its share of the UK confectionery rose to 16.5% in the first half of 2011, up from 15.5% in the same period last year. Product launches such as three new Aero chocolate bars and a new range from Rowntree’s helped boost market share.

Globally sales were up 8.5% on an organic basis against the first half of 2010. “Organic growth blew away our expectation and consensus,” said Bernstein analyst Andrew Wood.

The strong appetite for packaged food in emerging markets provided a further boost for the company’s top line.

“Nestlé, in common with Danone and Unilever, continues to benefit from both exposure to emerging markets and a commitment to healthier food and drink options,” said Matrix analyst Chris Wickman.

Read more
Nestlé makes £1.7bn Chinese confectionery bid (11 July 2011)
Fonterra joins Nestlé and Danone at dairy’s top table (23 June 2011)
Nestlé rides out rising costs to post strong first quarter (15 April 2011)

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