Markets rebound as US economy records fastest growth since 1984 – as it happened

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The reopening of hospitality venues, and higher demand for premium spirits, has boosted drinks maker Diageo.

Diageo, whose brands include Johnnie Walker whisky, Smirnoff vodka, Tanqueray gin and Baileys Irish Cream, grew its sales by 15.8% in the second half of 2021.

The positive price/mix benefit was primarily driven by mix, reflecting the strong growth of premium plus brands, particularly in scotch, tequila and Chinese white spirits, as well as the continued recovery of the on-trade channel in Europe and North America and the partial recovery of Travel Retail.

There was also a price benefit, primarily from price increases in Latin America and Caribbean, Africa and North America.

Diageo has produced a great set of results with a strong increase in sales, margin, and profits over the past six months.

The continuing shift by consumers to spirits consumption has benefited the company, as this is a sector of the drinks market that it dominates.