Strong first quarter for V&S Group

V&S Group’s operating profit improved by 31 per cent to SEK 417 million in the first quarter of 2006. Group net sales rose 16 per cent to SEK 2,320 million.

Group business area V&S Absolut Spirits improved its net sales with 20 per cent and its operating profit by 22 per cent during the period, primarily due to continued strong development for ABSOLUT VODKA. Profit for other business areas was more on a par with 2005. “The Group’s strong results are due to several factors,” says Bengt Baron, CEO of V&S Group. “We have an improved product mix and better cost control, and are continuing to focus on our core business. The US dollar exchange rate has also had a positive impact on the figures.” Read the entire interim report at www.vsgroup.com