Edrington announces financial results for 2019-20
30 Jun 2020
Edrington, the international premium spirits company, has reported strong financial results for the year ending 31 March 2020, posting a 6% year on year increase in core revenue and 13% rise in core contribution. These results will help the company to navigate the challenges and uncertainties of the post-coronavirus world.
Corporate summary*
- Core revenue (from Edrington branded products at constant currency) of £699.6m, +6% from 2019
- Revenue growth was faster than the 3% volume growth, reflecting the increased premiumisation of the portfolio
- Core contribution of £248.2m, +13%
- Brand investment of £133.2m, 0% growth, represents 19% of core revenue
- Profit before tax of £222.4m grew by 10%
Brand highlights
- Edrington’s leading brand, The Macallan had another outstanding year, continuing to make progress towards its vision of becoming the world’s ultimate spirit.
- It was a mixed year for our other single malts, Highland Park and The Glenrothes in a competitive category.
- Our Blended Malt, Naked, continued to appeal to existing and new consumers in the increasingly important contemporary whisky category.
- The Famous Grouse cemented its position as Scotland and the UK’s no.1 whisky, but the blended Scotch Whisky category continued its long-term decline.
- Brugal, Edrington’s premium rum continued to premiumise, with exceptional growth in its home market (the Dominican Republic) and a focus on key cities around the world.
Commenting on the results, Scott McCroskie, chief executive, said:
“Edrington had a highly successful year in 2019/20. A 6% year on year increase in core revenue and a 13% rise in core contribution marks four consecutive years of profit growth and validates the consistent long-term investment in our brands and our focus on strengthening critical business capabilities.
“However, it is important that we recognise that these results largely reflect a pre-coronavirus world. While our business is on a sound financial footing, we do not underestimate the challenges we will continue to face as we navigate the crisis and emerge into an uncertain new environment.
“We anticipate a significant decline in global sales and profits in 2020/21. Our immediate response has been to minimise cash outflow and control costs. We will continue to manage the business prudently whilst we adapt rapidly to our new situation and seek to capitalise on emerging opportunities.
“I believe the business is well-equipped to respond to changes in both consumer preferences and the channels through which spirits are sold. Fundamentally, our capabilities are strong, and our brands are in good health and remain desirable to consumers.
“Edrington’s success is powered by great people and exceptional brands. I am proud of the results the business achieved last year, and I am confident that we will navigate through this crisis and emerge fit for future growth.”
* Figures stated before exceptional items