Nichols has reported a solid set of interim results for the six months ended 30 June 2026, with sales increasing across its UK packaged, international packaged and out of home divisions as the soft drinks group continued to execute its long-term growth strategy.

Group revenue rose 4.7% to £89.5 million, while adjusted operating profit increased 3.7% to £14.1 million. Operating profit climbed 35.6% to £14.1 million following the absence of exceptional ERP implementation costs seen in the prior year, and free cash flow reached a record first-half £17.3 million.

The strongest performance came from Nichols’ international packaged business, where revenue increased 12.8% to £22.0 million. Africa remained the standout growth market, with sales climbing 17.2% thanks to increased distribution, continued investment in the Vimto brand and growing demand. The company said its ongoing transition to a higher-margin concentrate production model, including a second facility in Ivory Coast due to come online this year, continues to support profitability while bringing production closer to consumers.

The Middle East also delivered growth despite continued geopolitical uncertainty, with revenue increasing 6.3% following a successful Ramadan trading period and positive consumer response to the new Vimto Rose Cordial.

Closer to home, UK packaged revenue rose 2.3% to £48.1 million, driven by new distribution wins, value share gains in carbonates, continued momentum in Vimto Energy and product innovation. Nichols also highlighted its expansion into the fast-growing health and wellness sector through its partnership with THG, with Myprotein Clear Whey Protein Water set to launch in September.

Out of home revenue edged up 1.6% to £19.3 million as the group focused on profitable growth. New dispense contracts, including Rudy’s Pizzerias, and a stronger cinema release schedule supported performance, although profits were impacted by a shift in sales mix and one-off costs during the period.

Commenting on the results, chief executive Andrew Milne said: “We are pleased to have delivered another strong period of strategic and financial progress, with revenue growth accelerating to 4.7% supporting further profit growth and record cash generation.”

Milne added that the UK Packaged business had continued to deliver distribution gains and innovation-led growth, while “Vimto in Africa once again delivered an excellent performance driven by growth in can sales and the continued success of our strategy to migrate production closer to the point of consumption.”

Looking ahead, Nichols said its diversified geographic footprint, strong cash position and expanding innovation pipeline leave it well placed for the second half of the year. The Board maintained its full-year expectations and said it remains confident of delivering its medium-term growth ambitions.