Imperial Tobacco growth brand volumes gained 2 per cent in the three months to 31 Dec but overall volume fell 5 per cent in line with a general industry decline, the company said.

Net tobacco revenue at GBP 1.6 billion (EUR 1.9 billion) represented a 1 per cent increase when adjusted for impact of Imperial’s ongoing inventory reduction programme to reduce days of stock in trade, the company said in a trading statement. Net tobacco revenue rose 3 per cent in markets the company has targeted for growth.
“These results are in line with our expectations. We will continue driving our strategy this year, stepping up our investments behind quality growth. There is further stock optimisation work to be done”, said Chief Executive Officer Alison Cooper.