Heinz has reported a sharp rise in profits at its UK arm, even as sales edged lower amid fierce competition in sauces and beans.

According to new accounts filed with Companies House, the food manufacturer posted that pre-tax profit almost doubled to £191.9m in 2024, up from £104.1m the year before.

However, sales slipped 1.5% to £952.7m, down from £967.1m in 2023, with volumes falling 0.3% as Heinz cited “strong competition” in key categories and the delisting of non-priority lines as factors weighing on performance.

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The business said sales had stabilised after two years of decline, helped by renewed investment in pricing and marketing from late 2023. Innovation also proved a bright spot, accounting for 4.5% of net sales, while its away-from-home channel grew by over 4%.

Heinz pointed to operational savings in procurement and cost reductions as drivers of its improved bottom line.

Looking ahead, the company warned of “challenges” in 2025 due to slowing category momentum, adding that the “implementation of extended producer responsibility will put pressure on the cost base.”

But it said consumer metrics remained positive, with household penetration growing and market share stable.

Earlier this year, announced its decision to split into two businesses, as it seeks to sharpen focus across its global portfolio.