Vimto parent company Nichols Group has delivered a strong full-year result, aided by growth in its packaged business.

In the 12 months to 31 December, the food and drink manufacturer reported group sales rose by 0.8% to £172.1m, up from £170.7m in 2023.

This figure was boosted by the performance of its packaged business, which experienced full-year sales rise of 3.8%, driven by strong growth in the UK where sales rose by 5.4%, bolstered by innovation and distribution gains.

Subscribe to Grocery Gazette for free

Sign up here to get the latest grocery and food news each morning

Elsewhere, the group’s out-of-home (OOH) revenue fared less well, with sales down by 8.2%, however Nichols – which portfolio includes Vimto, Slush Puppie and Levi Roots –  cited this was “in line with the Group’s expectations” following exits from “unprofitable accounts” earlier in the year.

Nichols chief executive Andrew Milne said: “I’m pleased to report Nichols delivered a strong performance in FY24, with good progress made against our strategic plan and towards our medium-term financial ambitions.

“Our strategy will drive a high-margin, highly cash-generative, diversified business, built on the unique strength of the Vimto brand. Looking ahead, we remain focused on continuing to execute our strategic plans and driving further progress against our medium-term ambitions.”