Cadbury announce growth in sales and earnings

The world s biggest confectionery manufacturer Cadbury plc has announced an increase in earnings despite steep hikes in the cost of raw materials. Underlying profit from operations rose 48% up to GBP 248 m (€ 315 m). These were the first results released following the demerger of the Dr Pepper Snapple Group, completed in May. According to Cadbury, exchange rates had a beneficial impact on revenues with reported revenues up 14% to GBP 2.65 bn. Chocolate sales (Dairy Milk) rose by 6%, sweets (Halls) by 7% and chewing gum (Trident) by 10%. Full year growth is expected to total between 4% and 6%.