Revenue and profits have risen in the half-year results for Vimto parent Nichols, boosted by a successful Ramadan trading period, which remained solid for local favourite Vimto despite the ongoing turmoil in the Middle East.
The company reported revenue of £89.5m for the HY ended 30 June 2026, up from £85.5m in the same period of 2025, while adjusted profit before tax was also up to £15m from £14.6m the previous year.
The UK Packaged business saw growth driven by new product development (NPD) including Levi Roots Reggae Sunrise, distribution gains, momentum in relative newcomer Vimto Energy (launched in 2023) and successful strategic marketing campaigns.
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The group hopes to further capitalise on its existing NPD gains with expansion into the health and wellness category through the development of Myprotein Protein Water, launching in September.
Its International Packaged business was boosted by strong growth in Africa supported by increased distribution and Red Can sales growth. A second production facility is due to launch in Ivory Coast this year.
In Ramadan trading, Nichols reported that the new Vimto Rose Cordial was “well received” by consumers.
Its Out of Home sales were boosted by some profitable account wins, including Rudy’s Pizzerias, while the company gave credit to a strong film slate in H1 for growth in cinema sales.
Andrew Milne, chief executive at Newton-le-Willows-headquartered Nichols, said: “We are pleased to have delivered another strong period of strategic and financial progress, with revenue growth accelerating to 4.7% supporting further profit growth and record cash generation.
“Our UK Packaged business continued to deliver distribution gains and innovation-led growth, whilst Vimto in Africa once again delivered an excellent performance driven by growth in can sales and the continued success of our strategy to migrate production closer to the point of consumption. We were also pleased to have delivered a successful Ramadan trading period in the Middle East despite ongoing geopolitical uncertainty…
“Supported by our strong portfolio of brands, geographically diversified model, robust balance sheet and significant financial flexibility, we remain confident in our ability to deliver sustainable growth and create long-term shareholder value. The board’s expectations for the full year remain unchanged and we remain confident in achieving our medium-term financial plans.”
Nichols announced a 35 per cent increase in its interim dividend on the back of the results, to 20.2p per share from 15p.
