LEAF increased sales and profit in 2010
- Net sales increased with 2 percent to Euro 526.9 million (516.7)
- EBITA (incl. FX), excluding non-recurring items, increased with 7.9 percent to Euro 70.8 million (65.6)
“2010 was a successful year for LEAF. We grew both net sales value and EBITA. The sales growth was mainly driven by solid performances in Norway and Sweden. Sales in Finland were bolstered by the trade loading in anticipation of the new confectionary tax. I am also very satisfied with the fact that the Italian operation has returned to growth while simultaneously executing a significant change program during 2010”, says Bengt Baron, President and CEO of LEAF.
LEAF launched several new products during the year, mainly within the chewing gum segment. Läkerol Gum launched new products in Sweden and the concept was also launched for the first time in Norway. Sportlife Real Fresh and Vibes were introduced in Holland. In addition, Jenkki chewing gum improved its already very strong market position in Finland.
Key growth drivers in 2010 were Läkerol, Malaco, Venco, Ahlgrens Bilar, Saila and the gum business in Sweden and Norway (Läkerol) as well as Finland (Jenkki).
Within the supply chain, the factory in Zola Pedrosa, Italy, was closed and integrated into the factory in San Pietro, Italy. In November, it was decided that the factory in Slagelse, Denmark was to be closed and that production would be transferred to Levice, Slovakia.
LEAF is a leading confectionary company with focus on candy, gum and pastilles. LEAF has a leading position in the Nordic countries, the Netherlands, Belgium and Italy. In total, LEAF products are sold in more than 50 countries worldwide. LEAF owns some of the strongest brands on the market, e.g. Läkerol, Jenkki, Malaco, Sportlife, Saila, Red Band, Venco, Sperlari, Mynthon and Ahlgrens Bilar, all of them with local heritage. In 2010, LEAF had sales of approximately €525m and 2,400 employees in 12 countries. The company has 11 factories in 7 countries. LEAF is owned by CVC Capital, Nordic Capital and Management. For more information, visit www.leaf.eu