Manchester’s Vimto owner, Nichols, has reported a strong performance in the year to December 31, 2025, with revenues and profits on the up.
Turnover of £175.1m was a 1.3% improvement on the previous year, pre-tax profits rose by 21.5% to £29.2m, and the total dividend grew by 5.3% to 33.7p per share.
Revenues were driven by increased volumes in UK packaged and also reflected the company’s shift internationally to a lower revenue, but margin-enhanced, concentrate model across several African markets and the exit of the low margin Starslush brand in the second half.
In line with the strategy to focus on profitability, Out of Home (OoH) revenue was consistent year-on-year, despite the exit of the low margin Starslush.
Nichols did report a reduction in free cash flow, to £13.8m, which it said was driven by a timing difference in working capital, due to phasing of year-end sales, which is expected to unwind in the first half of 2026.
Sustained growth in UK Packaged delivered the highest ever Vimto Retail Sales Value (RSV) of £129.1m, driven by new product innovation, market share gains across dilutes, energy and ready to drink (RTD) sub-categories.
The International Packaged division continued to deliver excellent results underpinned by the new concentrate model in West Africa bringing production closer to the end consumer which is continuing to improve margins.
The group said the brand licensing channel continues to grow, with an enhanced partnership with Myprotein and a new agreement with Applied Nutrition.
It also said it continues to benefit from its diversified, asset-light business model, portfolio of brands and strong balance sheet, and is well positioned to deliver its medium-term growth strategy.
Trading so far during 2026 has been positive and in line with expectations.
CEO, Andrew Milne, said: “As a result of the continued execution of our growth strategy, Nichols delivered another strong performance in 2025, delivering solid profit growth.
“In the UK, Vimto has grown across its four key sub-categories, reinforcing the enduring strength and appeal of our iconic brand. Growth has been driven by expanded distribution, investment in our brand and our proven ability to bring compelling new products to market.”
He added: “Our International business delivered impressive growth in Africa, supported by our strategic shift towards a margin-enhancing concentrate model across several West African markets. We have an exciting pipeline of initiatives and plans across our markets in the year ahead and remain focused on delivering further progress against our medium term ambitions, leveraging the strength of the Vimto brand, the group’s diversified business model and strong financial position.”
