Still 2.9 % increase, even without Carola purchase
In the second half of 2013, Spadel added Carola, a French regional brand, to its line-up consisting of (among others) Spa, Bru, Wattwiller and Brecon Carreg, but even without this acquisition, the turnover growth would still be 2.9 %.
Belgian turnover grew more than 5 % in 2013, thanks to additional sales and a more beneficial product mix, with excellent performances of the 33 cl, 50 cl and 1 l sizes. Per litre, these sizes are more expensive than the larger bottles.
Spadel says it has out-performed than global usage of water at home, which grew in 2.3 % in volume and 3.3 % in worth last year. That was despite strong competition from private brands and hard discounters, according to Spadel.
Dutch sales back on the rise
Wattwiller’s turnover grew 2.5 % in France, above the average market growth. That market managed a slight volume growth, but had to take a small value hit because of the promotional pressure. Carola, a brand Spadel obtained through the purchase of Eaux Minérales de Ribeauvillé, had a 2 % full-year turnover increase.
The Netherlands have long been a difficult market for Spadel, but it has managed a 1 % turnover increase last year with sales volume steadily returning to their old levels. It sales numbers had suffered after some of its brands were temporarily not available at important supermarkets. Nevertheless, it is still facing strong competition from cheaper brands.
Brecon Carreg has almost managed a 10 % turnover increase in the United Kingdom, mostly thanks to excellent weather conditions.
Spadel plans to invest even more into its brands in the upcoming months, with more attention for Carola, while it wishes to keep costs under control elsewhere.
