Belgian drinks producer Spadel has had an exceptional year: with a volume growth of 9.1 %, the group passed the milestone of one billion litres of drinks sold. Turnover increased by 10 %, profit rose even faster.
“Multi-local” model pays off
Spadel’s turnover rose by 9.7 % last year to 379 million euros, while its EBIT shot up by 42.3 % to 71.4 million euros and net profit rose by 45.3 % to 41 million euros. These are record results for the group, which it says it grew throughout all its brands and all its markets.
CEO Marc du Bois says that his group’s brands have gained market share, pointing to what Spadel calls a “multi-local”. The group focuses on the Benelux, France and Bulgaria, aiming for each country to launch at least one new product each year. Last year, the Zyla natural energy drink and Spa Fountain for offices were new introductions.
Higher costs
This year, the drinks group is investing in a new production line and warehouse space at Devin in Bulgaria, to support local demand. Innovation remains central, with new flavours of sparkling water for Spa and Carola, and a lemonade range from Devin.
However, the group also warns of the geopolitical situation and economic uncertainty in Europe, which could weigh on purchasing power and operating costs. Spadel anticipates rising costs, such as for recycling, taxes and raw materials such as rPET (recycled PET plastic).
