24 November 1999
Cadbury Schweppes plc has decided henceforth to issue regular trading updates ahead of its interim and preliminary results to ensure that information provided to the investment community is widely available.
Cadbury Schweppes plc has decided henceforth to issue regular trading updates ahead of its interim and preliminary results to ensure that information provided to the investment community is widely available.
The following comments are made in respect of 1999 trading; the 1999 preliminary results will be issued on 16 February 2000.
The strong profit performance seen in our beverages operations has continued into the second half, driven by Dr Pepper/Seven Up in the US.
We are maintaining or growing our shares in most of our key confectionery businesses, although demand in some confectionery markets remains subdued. We anticipate a satisfactory profit outcome in the confectionery division for 1999 given our continued focus on a more profitable product mix and attention to costs.
Group underlying profit before tax, restructuring and exceptionals for the year to December 1999 is anticipated to be in line with market expectations.
Proceeds of nearly $1bn from the sale of our soft drinks brands in over 155 countries to The Coca-Cola Company will create exceptional gains of around £400 million. These proceeds will be used to develop our business, both organically and by acquisition, and maintain our commitment to growing shareowner value.
For 1999 Cadbury Schweppes intends to take a total restructuring charge of around £75 million in order to accelerate a series of restructuring initiatives in a number of our major businesses.
In addition, Cadbury Schweppes may commence rolling on-market share purchases, the timing and extent of which will depend upon prevailing market conditions.
John Sunderland, Cadbury Schweppes' Chief Executive, commented, "During 1999 Cadbury Schweppes has created a more robust and sustainable portfolio of businesses. Our core confectionery and soft drink businesses are making sound progress. We are confident that the many initiatives within our Managing for Value programme will continue the transformation of the business."
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| David Kappler Chief Financial Officer Tel: +44 (0)20 7409 1313 |
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