Edrington Group Financial Results 2009 - 2010

[John]

The Edrington Group's results for the 12 months ended 31st March, 2010.

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
* Group turnover UP 11.5% at £468.3m (2009: £419.9m)
* Profit before tax (excluding exceptional items) UP 25.1% to £118.6m (2009: £94.8m)
* Shareholders'earnings (excluding exceptional items) UP 30.7% to £54.1m (2009: £41.4m)
* Dividend UP 25% to 23.25p (2009: 18.6p)

BRAND HIGHLIGHTS
* Solid performance and increased profits from The Famous Grouse; No.1 in Scotland for 30 years
* The Macallan showed significant growth in earnings; now number two single malt by value in the world
* Brugal continues to grow in Spain; has become market leader in its main export market. First full year of contribution
* Completed purchase of Cutty Sark on April 1, 2010; acquisition set to bear fruit in 2010/11
* Highland Park grew in its key markets; goes from strength to strength
* New route-to-market completed a successful first year

Commenting on the results, Ian Curle, chief executive, said today: "I am pleased to report that the company grew shareholders' earnings, reduced borrowings and further improved its strategic position during the year.

"Throughout the year we have continued to invest and develop our portfolio of premium international spirits brands, comprising The Famous Grouse, The Macallan, Brugal golden rum, Highland Park and Cutty Sark. We have maintained our focus on premiumisation, quality and service, whilst seeking to provide value to the trade and our customers. This strategy is bearing fruit as we continue to outperform the category in our key markets.

"We remain confident about the long term growth prospects for premium authentic spirits brands, however, the board remains cautious in its view of trading prospects in the short to medium term, due to challenging market conditions, especially in Europe."