Merseyside Vimto maker Nichols sees ‘steady growth’ in the first half of 2025 as revenues rise 1.8% to £85.5m but pre-tax profits fall slightly. Tony McDonough reports
Vimto maker Nichols says its UK packaged division, where it sells to major retailers and wholesalers, was the star performer in the first half of 2025.
Newton-le-Willows-based Nichols said the division saw a 3.7% rise in sales to £47m in the six months to June 30, 2025. This helped the firm achieve “steady growth” in overall revenues which rose 1.8% to £85.5m.
However, pre-tax profits fell slightly to £11.4m compared to £11.8m for the same period last year. Exceptional costs of £3.2m were due to further investment in a business change programme and the implantation of new software.
Nichols, which is listed on the Alternative Investment Market, sells Vimto in more than 60 countries around the world. It is also behind the SLUSH PUPPiE Feel Good, Starslush, ICEE, Levi Roots and Sunkist soft drink brands.
Vimto is particularly popular in the Muslim world during the holy month of Ramadan. It provides a quick boost of sugar-filled energy following the dawn ’til dusk fast.
During the half year international sales were down 2.5% to £19.5m due to the shift to the margin enhancing concentrate model in Africa and phasing of Middle East shipments given earlier timing of Ramadan.
Nichols saw continued strong growth in Africa driven by additional investment and implementation of a higher margin concentrate model. it oversaw a launch into Malaysia, supporting a strategic geographic expansion plan.
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Chief executive Andrew Milne said: “We are pleased to have delivered further progress against our growth strategy in the first half of the year.
“Our UK Packaged business performed well, driven by distribution gains and exciting product innovation, including our new functional squash, Wonderfuel.
“In Africa, the strategic transition to a concentrate model remains on track. The group also expanded its footprint across several other key international markets, including Malaysia where Vimto is now listed across all major retailers nationwide.
“Leveraging the strength of our brand portfolio, our geographically diverse business model, and a robust balance sheet, we remain confident that Nichols is well-positioned to deliver growth in line with our strategy and medium-term financial objectives.”