Barry Callebaut has reported its financial performance for the first six months of the year. Volume growth picked up 3.5% in the second quarter, and sales revenues were ahead 2.5% in local currencies to CHF3.5 billion. EBIT improved 19.3%, and net profit was up 32.6% in local currencies.

“We keep delivering on our ‘smart growth’ agenda,” said Antoine de Saint-Affrique, CEO of the Barry Callebaut Group. “Sales volume growth picked up in the second quarter of the current fiscal year, despite sluggish global demand for chocolate confectionery. We significantly improved our profitability as a result of our ongoing focus on product and customer mix and the successful implementation of our Cocoa Leadership program. At the same time, we continue to focus on free cash flow and returns.”

“Whilst markets remain volatile, we have built a healthy chocolate portfolio and expect the good momentum to continue,” he continued. “We will pursue the implementation of our Cocoa Leadership program and consistently execute our ‘smart growth’ strategy. On this basis, we confirm our mid-term guidance.”