We're a highly focused soft drinks business. Our brand portfolio includes Vimto , which is sold in over 70 countries, Levi Roots, Weight Watchers, Sunkist and Panda, which are sold in the UK. We have a leading market position in both the still and carbonate drinks categories and also in the soft drinks on dispense market.





http://www.nicholsplc.co.uk/

Nichols plc, the soft drinks group, announces its Interim results for the period ended 30 June 2012.

http://www.nicholsplc.co.uk/reports/2012/2012%20Interim%20announcement.pdf

Financial calendar
Preliminary Results announcement
8th March 2012

Annual General Meeting
2nd May 2012

2011 Final Dividend payment
4th May 2012

Interim Results announcement
26th July 2012

2012 Interim Dividend payment
31st August 2012

A buy rec in IC this week - Chief executive Brendan Hynes expects new distribution agreements in the Middle East and Africa to help Nichols maintain impressive international growth. So the shares, on a forcast PE of 17, remain a buy.

Nichols owns a portfolio of soft drink brands. The most significant of these is Vimto. Others include Panda and the UK rights to Sunkist.

Nichols can trace its roots back to 1908 when John Noel Nichols first created Vimto. For historical reasons, the carbonated/still fruit cordial is incredibly popular in the Middle East, especially during the month of Ramadan, and this remains a growing market for Nichols. Recent sales figures revealed 11% growth there last year.

Africa is also a significant market for Nichols. Here, sales increased a remarkable 27% in the year.

Nichols has been increasing its dividend every year since 2005. Growth in earnings and dividend is expected to continue to the next two years. Analyst consensus is for 9.0% eps growth for 2012, followed by similar progression in 2013.

The company's success has driven Nichols' share price to an all-time high.

READY TO OFFER PLENTY OF FIZZ.

Do not be put off by the northwards share price trajectory and high rating ascribed
to soft drinks star Nichols. Heavy investment behind a brand portfolio spearheaded
by Vimto, as well as Sunkist and Panda, weight Watchers and Levi Roots, should ensure the £282 million cap continues to serve up sparkling sales and profits growth
whilst generating bumper levels of cash.
Exports to key international markets such as the Middle East and Africa, where the increasinglyaffluent consumeris aquiring a taste for branded beverages, remain bouyant
and should soon spark upwards revisions to estimates.
Based on calendar 2012 consensus earnings estimates of 39.5p ,. Nichols shares sell
on a punchy prospective price/earnings multiple (PE) of almost twenty times . Yet the
Newton-le-willows-based business could even emerge as a long term bid candidate given further consolidation of the struggling soft drinks industry.
Remains a buy on brand strength,strong international growth and scope for further rounds of upgrades.

For 2013 profits of £21.1 million and 7.5% growth in EPS to 43p look achievable.

Good to see this distancing from £8

A good day today

Another good find DC!

Come on skinny you must be finding them and not telling us. lol

I wish :-)

Doing very well, lets hope the fizz does not go flat on this one

Are they good for £10 ?

Read post 5 and you will have to decide. :-))

2012 Pre-close announcement

Monday 7th January 2013

In the final list of shares mag for UK stock market awards 2013, in the Best food and beverage plc. Along with Barr (AG) Carr's milling industries,Diageo and Finsbury foods.The awards will also seek to answer who is truly creating shareholder value ?
The winners in each sector will be judged on their ability to allocate capital in the most effective manor possible. They will be scored on how well they balance risk with reward and ranked by their track record at generating the earnings or dividend growth that inturn yields the optimal total shareholder return

Results 18 Feb 2013.

Been tempted to sell , hope for a good update on the 7th.

Nichols PLC - Pre-Close Trading Statement
07 January 2013



Nichols plc

Pre-Close Trading Statement

Nichols plc ("the Group"), today issues the following pre-close trading update

The Group has continued its positive trading momentum in the second half of 2012 with total sales for the year ended 31 December 2012 increasing by 9% to £108m.



This performance is ahead of the UK soft drinks market and has been achieved against last year's strong comparatives (18% uplift on 2010), a challenging UK economy and record wet weather.



The UK market, as measured by A.C. Nielsen, increased in value by 3.2% for the year to 8 December 2012 with underlying volume down 0.6%.

Despite this challenging market we are pleased to report that our UK business has increased sales by 10% against the prior year with our export sales also increasing by 8%

Despite another year of significant cost inflation and high levels of promotional activity, we expect, as a minimum, to maintain our operating margins. This has been achieved by a combination of good cost control and ongoing productivity improvements.

The Group's balance sheet remains strong and has continued to generate positive cash in line with our expectations.

In summary, 2012 has seen a strong trading performance and we expect Group profit and earnings per share (EPS) to be significantly ahead of last year and ahead of market expectations.

The Group's Preliminary results will be announced on 7 March 2013.


John Nichols

Non-Executive Chairman

Great update.

DC - can you edit out some of the superfluous lines of spaces etc.

Nichols beats expectations
Mon 07 Jan 2013

LONDON (SHARECAST) - Soft drinks maker Nichols, which owns the Vimto brand, said its full year figures would beat expectations, pushing its shares up in morning trading.

The firm said total sales for the year ended 31st December had increased by 9% to £108m, with export sales increasing by 8%.

It expects group profit and earnings per share to be significantly ahead of 2011 and ahead of market expectations.

"Despite another year of significant cost inflation and high levels of promotional activity, we expect, as a minimum, to maintain our operating margins," said Chairman John Nichols.

"This has been achieved by a combination of good cost control and ongoing productivity improvements."

It highlighted that the UK market, as measured by A.C. Nielsen, increased in value by 3.2% for the year to 8th December 2012 with underlying volume down 0.6%.

A superb chart from early 2009 DC.

Sorry about the rushed update this morning skinny , hung on to see the update before leaving for work.

Dc - you can post how you like - please don't apologise to me - it just makes it easier to read without all the white space.

Anyway - another good pick by yourself.

climbed hard since the end of Aug.

A buy in this weeks shares mag - Nichols still has plenty of fizz.

A bullish outlook statement alongside March's final,.ahead of what should prove a bullish out look statement. Supported by sustained investment behind brands including Vimto and robust export growth, Shares believes the earnings forecast upgrade cycle should continue
into 2013.

Last month’s (7 Jan) better-than-expected pre-close update confirmed calendar 2012 as another strong year for Nichols, whose other brands include Sunkist and Panda as well as more recent launches such as Weight Watchers and Levi Roots.

Nichols continues to outperform the UK soft drinks market, while the £317.4 million cap’s exports to international markets such as the Middle East and Africa, where consumers are increasingly able to afford branded beverages, offer one forecast upgrade catalyst. Others include the possibility of further licensing agreements in the UK, as well as earnings-enhancing acquisitions underpinned by a burgeoning cash pile.

Following last month’s bullish missive, Investec Securities’ Nicola Mallard increased her taxable profits estimate from £19.9 million to £20.3 million and nudged estimated earnings per shares (EPS) up from 39.5p to 40.3p. This year, the analyst sees profits and EPS putting on 7% to £21.7 million and 43.2p respectively.

Although a 2013 price/earnings (PE) ratio of 20 times is demanding, the premium rating is justified by Nichols’ sector-leading returns, overseas growth scope and the outside chance of a bid as the soft drinks industry consolidates.

http://www.barchart.com/opinions/stocks/NICL.LS

On Wednesday, Nichols PLC (NICL:LSE) closed at 871.75, 2.05% below its 52-week high of 890.00, set on Nov 15, 2012.

Consensus recommendation
As of Feb 25, 2013, the consensus forecast amongst 4 polled investment analysts covering Nichols plc advises that the company will outperform the market. This has been the consensus forecast since the sentiment of investment analysts deteriorated on Dec 02, 2011. The previous consensus forecast advised investors to purchase equity in Nichols plc.
.

http://markets.ft.com/research/Markets/Tearsheets/Forecasts?s=NICL:LSE

The naked trader 27 Feb -


Nichols (LON:NICL) where I now sit on a fabulous profit is up again after telling the market it is ahead of expectations - it has tons of cash so I'd expect them to announce some kind of big dividend with results in March.

As of Mar 02, 2013, the consensus forecast amongst 4 polled investment analysts covering Nichols plc advises that the company will outperform the market. This has been the consensus forecast since the sentiment of investment analysts deteriorated on Dec 02, 2011. The previous consensus forecast advised investors to purchase equity in Nichols plc.

On Monday, Nichols PLC (NICL:LSE) closed at 885.00, 0.56% below its 52-week high of 890.00, set on Nov 15, 2012.

Nichols PLC (NICL:LSE) set a new 52-week high during today's trading session when it reached 896.14. Over this period, the share price is up 41.81%.

Final results 7 March

Nichols: Canaccord Genuity raises target price from 820p to 1000p and upgrades to buy. Panmure Gordon increases target price from 830p to 900p, while reiterating its hold recommendation.

Preliminary Results

Highlights:

· Group sales up 9% to £107.8m (2011: £98.9m)

· Profit before tax up 13% to £20.5m (2011: £18.1m)

· Earnings per share up 14% to 41.4p (2011: 36.3p)

· Proposed final dividend of 11.7p, total dividend for the year up 13% to 17.3p (2011:15.3p)

· Sales in the UK grew 9%, significantly ahead of the market growth rate

· International sales up 8% year on year




http://www.moneyam.com/action/news/showArticle?id=4550497

Nichols PLC (NICL:LSE) set a new 52-week high during today's trading session when it reached 905.50. Over this period, the share price is up 39.74%.

Nichols: Investec raises target price from 800p to 890p and retains a hold recommendation.

A buy in this weeks IC - Weight watchers add fizz to Nichols.

Nichols share price hit new highs after another outstanding set of results. Home sales grew 9% against a 3% increase in UK soft drinks turnover overall, thanks to a double -digit rise in the number of outlets selling Vimto, along with successful new product launches. The top new performer was a line of no-calorie drinks for diet -brand weight watchers. Exports were another favourable factor, with sales up 22% in Africa and an impressive 24% in Europe. Overall, exports were 8% higher but were held back by flat income in the Middle East, partly due to the unfavourable timing of Ramadan. Good cost controls meant the fall in gross margins because of rising prices of raw materials -such as plastic , aluminium and sweeteners- was reversed at operating level. Broker Canaccord Genuity expects underlying pre-tax profits of £22.5m and EPS of 45.4p this year (from £22.5m and EPS of 40.9p in 2012)
One key to the years results will be how quicklyagreements to distribute products in North Africa via a large French distributor and in equatorial Africa via the Coca-Cola network ramp up. After another increase in net cash, acquisitions could be on the cards. On a prospective PE ratio of around 20 , nichol's don't appear cheap.But the rating is more than justified by the company's move into the UK's healthy drinks market - while export opportunities continue to abound.

Winner of the Best Food and Beverage PLC in the UK Stock Market awards 2013 in Shares mag this week.



As of Mar 15, 2013, the consensus forecast amongst 4 polled investment analysts covering Nichols plc advises that the company will outperform the market. This has been the consensus forecast since the sentiment of investment analysts deteriorated on Dec 02, 2011. The previous consensus forecast advised investors to purchase equity in Nichols plc.

Ex-dividend Wednesday 27 March 11.7p

On Tuesday, Nichols PLC (NICL:LSE) closed at 899.00, 0.72% below its 52-week high of 905.50, set on Mar 07, 2013.

Nichols PLC (NICL:LSE) set a new 52-week high during Thursday's trading session when it reached 907.00. Over this period, the share price is up 38.69%

Nichols PLC (NICL:LSE) set a new 52-week high during today's trading session when it reached 920.00. Over this period, the share price is up 37.52%.

2012 Final dividend payment

Friday 3rd May 2013

Nichols PLC (NICL:LSE) set a new 52-week high during today's trading session when it reached 940.00. Over this period, the share price is up 37.88%.

The naked trader today - Nichols (LON:NICL)where I now sit on a fabulous profit is up again and seems to have cleared 900 - a tenner next? It just keeps going, please keep drinking that Vimto!

A buy in this weeks IC - The company has good cost control, which means it can protect margins against higher raw material costs and this year distribution agreements in Africa will be key to success. With net cash in the bank, there are rumours that acquisitions could be on the horizon, too. Admittedly, the shares are trading on a punchy 22 times earnings, but that's a price worth paying for Nichols growth prospects and rising dividend.

Nichols PLC (NICL:LSE) set a new 52-week high during today's trading session when it reached 943.00. Over this period, the share price is up 34.48%

AGM Statement

RNS


RNS Number : 6749D

Nichols PLC

01 May 2013











Date:

Immediate release, Wednesday 1 May 2013




Contacts:

John Nichols, Non-Executive Chairman


Brendan Hynes, Group Chief Executive

Marnie Millard, incoming Group Chief Executive

Tim Croston, Group Finance Director


Nichols plc


Telephone: 01925 222222


Website:www.nicholsplc.co.uk









Nick Lyon / Alex Brennan

Richard Lindley


Hudson Sandler

N+1 Singer (Nominated Adviser)


Telephone:020 7796 4133

Telephone: 0113 388 4789


Email: nichols@hspr.com

Website: www.n1singer.com






Nichols plc

AGM Statement



John Nichols, Non-Executive Chairman of Nichols plc, the soft drinks group, will make the following statement at the Group's Annual General Meeting to be held later today:



Current Trading



"I am pleased to report that the Group's profit performance after the first four months of 2013 is in line with management expectations and ahead of the prior year. This has been achieved in a challenging UK market and against strong comparatives from last year.



In the UK, our core brands continue to perform well, with double digit sales growth in the Still category. In the Carbonate sector we have consciously reduced our participation in this heavily promoted sector, in line with our strategy of focusing on value generation. We expect this will result in a marginal decline in revenues for our UK business in 2013, but this will improve our overall operating margin and profitability.



Sales into our export markets are in line with management expectations, with sales to Africa ahead of last year and sales to the Middle East broadly at the same level as 2012.



I would also like to take this opportunity to thank our outgoing Chief Executive, Brendan Hynes, for his outstanding contribution to the business during the last 10 years and wish him every success for the future. Marnie Millard takes over as Chief Executive with the business in good health and, at this early stage of the year, we are very pleased with the Group's continuing progress and are confident of delivering results in line with full year expectations

Still beverages bring fizz to Vimto maker Nichols

By Rupert Steiner

PUBLISHED: 22:21, 1 May 2013 | UPDATED: 22:21, 1 May 2013








Vimto and Sunkist maker Nichols is to shift its focus away from the heavily promoted fizzy drinks market to grow its stable of still beverages.


The soft drinks firm, which also owns Panda, Cabana & Ben Shaws, said its core brands continued to perform well in a trading update ahead of its annual meeting.


It has seen double digit sales growth in the still category and expects a marginal decline in revenues for the UK business in 2013 due to reducing its reliance on fizzy drinks.



Vimto maker: Soft drinks firm Nichols operates in more than 65 countries

Non-executive chairman John Nichols said this will improve its overall operating margin and profitability.






He said: ‘I am pleased profit performance after the first four months of 2013 is in line with expectations and ahead of the prior year. This has been achieved in a challenging UK market and against strong comparatives from last year.’


The firm (down 8p to 930p) sells its drinks in more than 65 countries.


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/money/markets/article-2317870/Still-beverages-bring-fizz-Vimto-maker-Nichols.html#ixzz2SAUJv9al
Follow us: @MailOnline on Twitter | DailyMail on Facebook

Nichols PLC (NICL:LSE) set a new 52-week high during Wednesday's trading session when it reached 950.00. Over this period, the share price is up 29.23%.

Nichols PLC (NICL:LSE) set a new 52-week high during today's trading session when it reached 982.50. Over this period, the share price is up 38.08%.

The naked trader 6 June - Nichols (LON:NICL) just continues to rise and rise but might not be enough for it to clear a tenner for a while but I sit on a fabulous profit.

Nichols PLC (NICL:LSE) set a new 52-week high during today's trading session when it reached 990.00. Over this period, the share price is up 40.83%.

On Tuesday, Nichols PLC (NICL:LSE) closed at 990.00, 0.00% below its 52-week high of 990.00, set on Jun 13, 2013.

Nichols PLC (NICL:LSE) set a new 52-week high during today's trading session when it reached 1,000.00. Over this period, the share price is up 42.07%.

In Shares today - A shooting star.

One small-cap soft drinks specialist confounding the market malaise is Nichols, although newcomers to the story will be confronted by a hefty valuation. Shares in the Vimto ,Sunkist and Panda brand owner have surged from 700p last summer to 1014p . The company looks a candidate for further forecast upgrades.

Nichols PLC (NICL:LSE) set a new 52-week high during today's trading session when it reached 1,015. Over this period, the share price is up 42.62%

Just keeps edging up. :-))

You've done well here DC, I had them from when they broke £9 to just above £10 - so thanks for the 'heads up'.

Thanks skinny.

Very rare to rise 3% +

Nichols PLC (NICL:LSE) set a new 52-week high during today's trading session when it reached 1,055. Over this period, the share price is up 49.96%


2013 Interim results announcement

Thursday 25th July 2013

Notice of Results

RNS


RNS Number : 7756J

Nichols PLC

19 July 2013










19 July 2013





Nichols plc



NOTICE OF INTERIM RESULTS



Nichols plc, the soft drinks group, will be announcing its interim results for the period ended 30 June 2013 on Thursday 25 July 2013.

Interim Results


Highlights:



· Profit before tax up 9% to £9.0m

· Basic earnings per share up 11% to 18.76p

· Strong net cash position of £31.2m (H1 2012: £23.6m)

· Exclusive licence to add Extreme Sports and Energy to brand portfolio

· Interim dividend up 13% to 6.32p






http://www.moneyam.com/action/news/showArticle?id=4638045

IC yesterday -


Nichols tasting nice

Revenues at Nichols (NICL) were flat in the half-year, but this was already expected and is part of a strategy announced at the start of 2013 to focus on profit, rather than sales, in the UK.

So far, management has delivered on this plan. Scaling back UK promotional activity, particularly in the carbonates category, delivered an increase in revenue per case, higher profit and better margins. Indeed, the group operating profit rose 7 per cent to £8.9m, and the margin widened 110 basis points to 16.1 per cent.

In Africa, distribution partnerships with the Coca-Cola Bottling Company are really starting to bear fruit and boosted sales, although this was partly offset by weaker sales in the Middle East, leaving international revenue up 2 per cent.

On the product side, Nichols was given the exclusive right to add the Extreme Sports and Energy drinks to its brand portfolio and new products are in the pipeline for the first quarter of 2014. This will include fresh packaging formats and new products in the Levi Roots range. By this time, Nichols is also planning to have entered two new markets.

Broking house Panmure Gordon has boosted EPS forecasts for 2013 from 45p to 47p, rising to 50.7p in 2014 (from 41.4p in 2012).

AIM shares get ISA approval - but how do you separate the wheat from the chaff?

ISA rules taking effect, we put Stockopedia’s StockRanks to work to see which AIM shares could be worth a closer look. We did it by using the QualityRank, which ranks every company in the market from 1-100 based on a composite score blending ratios connected to historic cashflow, profitability and margin stability. Research has found that good quality companies scoring highly on these measures often outperform – you can read more about it here.

Among those AIM stocks achieving QualityRanks of more than 90% is Nichols (LON:NICL), the soft drinks business behind brands like Vimto, Sunkist and Panda. Shares in the £380 million market cap company have enjoyed a remarkably steady incline over the past three years (see chart below) with pre-tax profits growing by 13% to £20.5 million last year despite subdued market conditions and a wet summer affecting soft drinks sales. There were no shocks in Nichols’ recent half year results, with profits up again and plans for further brand investment and market expansion. The company’s dividend yield is a modest 2%.


http://uk.finance.yahoo.com/news/aim-shares-isa-approval-separate-103851752.html

Nichols PLC (NICL:LSE) set a new 52-week high during today's trading session when it reached 1,155. Over this period, the share price is up 59.38%.

Closed at 1,217.00p

23/08/2013 04:35 pm


Nichols PLC (NICL:LSE) set a new 52-week high during today's trading session when it reached 1,217. Over this period, the share price is up 66.71%.

Dividend
The Board has declared a dividend of 6.32 pence per share (2012: 5.62 pence), representing an increase of 13% reflecting the robust results, strong balance sheet and the Board’s ongoing confidence for the future.
This interim dividend will be paid on 30 August 2013 to shareholders registered on 2 August 2013.

The naked trader today -

Nichols (LON:NICL) continues to fizz gradually higher ...Just a matter of time before it gets taken out with Britivic or AG Barr possible bidders.

IC this week - The company has been a steady growth story over the last three years, its shares are up 168% in that period. And while the shares are not cheap, trading on 25 times forward earnings - a significant premium to peers, the company is well run and still well placed to grow. In the UK , where trading conditions have been tough, a focus on profit, rather than sales is paying off. The company also has a cash rich balance sheet, which means it has plenty of scope to expand its operations abroad. The Middle East and Africa are core established regions for Vimto, and in Africa a distribution partnership with Coca-Cola bottling company has already boosted sales. New products are in the pipeline for 2014, when Nichols is due to enter two new markets.

Holding(s) in Company

Brewin Dolphin Limited 2 million shares


http://www.moneyam.com/action/news/showArticle?id=4700231

Trading Statement

10 Jan 14 Nichols PLC [NICL]

Pre-Close Trading Statement

RNS


RNS Number : 3358X

Nichols PLC

10 January 2014









Date:

Embargoed until 0700 Friday 10th January 2014




Contacts:

John Nichols, Non-Executive Chairman


Marnie Millard, Group Chief Executive

Tim Croston, Group Finance Director


Nichols plc


Telephone: 01925 222222


Website:www.nicholsplc.co.uk







Alex Brennan / Nick Lyon

Richard Lindley


Hudson Sandler

N+1 Singer (Nominated Adviser)


Telephone: 020 7796 4133

Telephone: 0113 388 4855/ 0207 496 3000


Email: nichols@hspr.com

Website: www.n1singer.com






Nichols plc

Pre-Close Trading Statement



Nichols plc ("the Group") today issues the following pre-close trading update for the year ended 31 December 2013.



I am pleased to report that the Group has continued its strong performance into the second half of 2013.



Group sales in the second half of 2013 grew by 4% compared to the prior year and will total c£109.9m for the full year, 2% ahead of 2012.



Our UK sales gained momentum in the second half of 2013, increasing by 5% year on year taking the full year total to c£86.8m, 2% ahead of the prior year. Also during 2013 we have successfully delivered our strategy to improve profitability with both revenue per case and margin showing good improvement compared to 2012.



We have successfully grown our market share of the Still category resulting in Vimto dilute sales increasing by 11% in the year and have continued with our planned reduction in promotional activity in the heavily discounted Carbonate category, where Vimto carbonate sales are down by 6%.



Within our International business, continued growth in the African markets and a stronger second half year in the Middle East have delivered full year sales of c£23.1m which is 2% ahead of the prior year.



Our balance sheet remains strong and 2013 trading has continued to generate positive cash flow in line with our expectations.



We are well positioned to maintain our performance into 2014 and continue to invest in our brands, including a new creative media campaign for Vimto which will commence in the spring.



In summary, during 2013 we have successfully increased profitability, delivered good sales growth in the second half of the year and we expect the full year profit and earnings per share to be ahead of the prior year and in line with expectations.



The Group's Preliminary results will be announced on 13 March 2014.





John Nichols

Non-Executive Chairman

Nichols sees good sales growth in second half

By Giles Gwinnett

January 10 2014, 8:14am
The group said it increased profitability and sales growth last year and expects full year profit and EPS (earnings per share) to be ahead of the prior year and in line with expectations
The group said it increased profitability and sales growth last year and expects full year profit and EPS (earnings per share) to be ahead of the prior year and in line with expectations


An increase of sales in still Vimto helped soft drinks supplier Nichols (LON:NICL) deliver a strong performance in 2013.

The group said it increased profitability and sales growth last year and expects full year profit and EPS (earnings per share) to be ahead of the prior year and in line with expectations.

In the second half, group sales grew by 4% compared to 2012 and will total around £109.9 million for the full year, 2% ahead of 2012.

UK sales gained momentum in the second half increasing 5% year-on-year.

"We have successfully grown our market share of the still category resulting in Vimto dilute sales increasing by 11% in the year and have continued with our planned reduction in promotional activity in the heavily discounted Carbonate category, where Vimto carbonate sales are down by 6%," it added.

14 Jan Investec 1,055.00 Sell

Preliminary Results



Highlights:

· Group sales up 2% to £109.9m (2012: £107.8m) with continued growth in the UK and internationally

· Operating profit margin increased to 20% (2012: 19%)

· Profit before tax (pre-exceptional items) up 10% to £22.5m (2012: £20.5m)

· Earnings per share (pre-exceptional items) up 11% to 45.8p (2012: 41.4p)

· Continuing strong cash generation with net cash at the year end up 39% to £34.3m (2012: £24.7m)

· Proposed final dividend of 13.3p (2012: 11.7p), taking total dividend for the year up 13% to 19.62p (2012: 17.32p)



http://www.moneyam.com/action/news/showArticle?id=4771893

AGM Statement

RNS


RNS Number : 7805F

Nichols PLC

30 April 2014


John Nichols, Non-Executive Chairman of Nichols plc, the soft drinks group, will make the following statement at the Group's Annual General Meeting to be held later today:



Current Trading



"Whilst it is still early in the year, I am pleased to report that the Group's profit performance is in line with management expectations and ahead of the prior year.



After the first four months of 2014, our UK sales performance is ahead of the market and the 2013 comparative period, despite the challenging economic conditions affecting the grocery trade. Our export sales are per management expectations at this early stage of the year.



In 2014 we will continue to invest for growth and during April we have introduced the new Vimto branding across the whole range. This is supported by the launch of our new TV campaign featuring the Vimtoad.



In summary, the Board are satisfied with the first four months performance for 2014 and are confident of delivering full year results in line with expectations."



- ENDS -

Nichols: Investec raises target price from 1055p to 1122p and upgrades from sell to hold.

Nichols surprised by £9m Vimto damages payout

Wed, 02 July 2014

Price: 924.00

Chg: -31.50

Chg %: -3.30%


Nichols shares were hit after the High Court ruled that the soft drinks company must pay the equivalent of £8.0m in damages, in addition to costs in the range of £1m-1.5m, following a litigation claim from Gul Bottlers.

The amount is significantly above the £2m that the company had set aside for the claim.

The size of the award is based on the court's assessment of Gul's loss of profit for the duration of a contract signed in September 2011 to produce and distribute Vimto in the Pakistani market.

Nichols issued a statement which said it "fundamentally disagrees" with the quantum of the award and this it was "considering with its professional advisers options for appeal".

"Whilst this is an extremely disappointing outcome, there is no impact on future underlying trading expectations and the payment of this award in no way affects the group's ability to continue with its strategy to invest in its brands and future growth plans," the firm said. "The group continues to be highly cash generative with a strong balance sheet."

It confirmed that trading for the first six months of the year had continued to be good and the group said it was confident of delivering full year results in line with management expectations.

The share price had fallen 7.48% to 884p by 14:56.

Interim Results

Highlights:

· Pre-exceptional Profit before Tax up 11% to £10.0m

· Pre-exceptional Basic Earnings Per Share up 13% to 21.23p

· Interim dividend up 12% to 7.1p



http://www.moneyam.com/action/news/showArticle?id=4854956

Signal Update

Our system’s recommendation today is to BUY. The BULLISH HOMING PIGEON pattern finally received a confirmation because the prices crossed above the confirmation level which was at 923.0000, and our valid average buying price stands now at 944.0000. The previous SHORT signal was issued on 27/10/2014, 14 days ago, when the stock price was 934.2500. Since then NICL.L has risen by +1.04%.

Market Outlook

The bulls have strong evidence on their side and this evidence prompts us to make a bullish bet. The bullish pattern that was previously identified is finally confirmed and a BUY signal is generated. It is probably the right time to be part of this boost and bullish market sentiment. The market is telling you about a possible new profit. Do not miss this chance.



http://www.britishbulls.com/SignalPage.aspx?lang=en&Ticker=NICL.L

Trading Update

http://www.moneyam.com/action/news/showArticle?id=4954856

Vimto maker is a refreshing investment

The soft drinks maker has an excellent dividend record, debt free balance sheet and over a century of drinks making history, says Questor




Nichols expects group sales for the year to December 31 to be up 3.4pc at £113.6m, Photo: REUTERS








By John Ficenec, Questor Editor

6:00AM GMT 09 Jan 2015


Nichols
932p+30½p
Questor says BUY


Nichols [LON:NICL], the maker of Vimto soft drinks, has a strong balance sheet, an excellent dividend record and more than 100 years of beverage-making history.


The company delivered an impressive sales update yesterday, sending its shares more than 3pc higher as it continued to outperform competitors in a tough UK sector.




Nichols expects group sales for the year to December 31 to be up 3.4pc at £113.6m, well ahead of the wider UK soft drinks market, where sales increased by 0.4pc during the same period.


Nichols said a rebranding of its packaging and a new advertising campaign helped to increase Vimto sales in the UK by 4.5pc last year. About 79pc of sales are generated in the UK, with significant results in the Middle East and Africa.


The group had a particularly strong second half in the Middle East, where Vimto has apparently become popular during Ramadan. Full-year sales rose 12.3pc in the region.

This is a far cry from Vimto’s English roots. The soft drink was invented in the North West 106 years ago. It was first sold in Gulf countries such as Kuwait, Yemen, Bahrain and the UAE and Saudi Arabia in 1928, and has been manufactured in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, since the 1970s.

The drink has become a tradition during Ramadan as Muslims enjoy the taste and energy boost after a day of fasting. Nearly half of Vimto’s annual sales occur during Ramadan, which ran from the end of June to the end of July last year.

The company generates plenty of cash and the forecast dividend of 21p is covered 1.7 times by earnings and more than twice by free cash flow. The shares have a prospective dividend yield of 2.2pc, and the payout is expected to increase 7pc this year and next. The company has a solid dividend record stretching back more than 15 years.

The company’s finances are looking secure, as it is debt free with about £33m in cash expected at the year end. The net assets on the balance sheet should be around £60m at the end of the year, or 161p per share.

The shares have been weak during the past 15 months, down from £12.37, as the wider Aim market has been sold off and fears over a price war in the supermarkets have hit the soft drinks sector.

Nichols is expected to make pre-tax profits of £25m, giving earnings per share of 53.5p, meaning shares are trading on 17 times earnings.

This is a quality company and the shares are looking oversold at the moment. Buy.

Shares Star pick - Ahead of full year results 5 Mar Investec forecasts 11% pre-tax profits growth to £25 million for earnings up 17.1% to 53.5p. For 2015 the broker sees profits reaching £25.9 million for earnings of 55.5p

Preliminary results

Upgrade 9 Mar Investec 1,240.00 Buy

IC - On 19 times forecast earnings , Nichols shares trade at a discount to both their historic average multiple and the sector average. This steady performer is worth it.

Ex-Dividend
02 Apr 15 Nichols PLC [NICL] (15.3 p)

AGM trading update and acquisition
RNS
RNS Number : 6120L
Nichols PLC
29 April 2015





Date:
Immediate release, Wednesday 29th April 2015



Contacts:
John Nichols, Non-Executive Chairman

Marnie Millard, Group Chief Executive

Tim Croston, Group Finance Director

Nichols plc

Telephone: 01925 222222

Website:www.nicholsplc.co.uk






Nick Lyon / Alex Brennan
Richard Lindley

Hudson Sandler (Financial PR)
N+1 Singer (Nominated Adviser)

Telephone:020 7796 4133
Telephone: 0207 496 3000

Email: nichols@hspr.com
Website: www.n1singer.com






Nichols plc

AGM trading update and acquisition


John Nichols, Non-Executive Chairman of Nichols plc, the soft drinks group, will make the following statement at the Group's Annual General Meeting to be held at 11.00 am today:



Current Trading


Group trading for the first quarter of 2015 is ahead of the prior year. Whilst the Board are happy with the first quarter performance, we anticipate that both the UK grocery and soft drinks markets will remain challenging for the remainder of the year. At this time we are expecting to deliver full year results in line with expectations.



During the year we plan to continue delivering our growth strategy with a focus on value over volume. We have already commenced a Vimto sales drive in the Midlands which will continue throughout the summer, this includes increased regional advertising and promotional activity aimed at enhancing distribution in this important region. In our Out of Home business, we will be focused on implementing the new Coca Cola dispense deal as announced earlier in the year.



Acquisition



We are delighted to announce that the Group has taken an initial 49% equity stake in The Noisy Drinks Co Ltd.



Noisy Drinks distributes slush drinks under the Starslush brand and had an annual turnover of £6.6m in its last financial year. The company has its own national network in the UK and also distributes to a number of key customers in mainland Europe. Noisy's operating model is closely aligned with our own Out of Home business and our investment provides an opportunity for both commercial and operating synergies.





- ENDS -

Interim results and acquisition

Acquisition



We are delighted to announce the acquisition of the Feel Good brand. Feel Good is an established range of premium juice drinks containing no added sugar and 100% natural ingredients. The brand is sold in the UK through the retail and on-trade channels, in addition there are export sales to mainland Europe.



The acquisition is a key part of our growth strategy and we plan to further develop the Feel Good brand across our established UK and international markets supported by increased marketing resource and investment.

29 Jul Investec 1,500.00 Hold

six-aim-shares-survive-stockmarket-sell

Nichols (NICL)

1,404p

Like James Halstead, soft drinks manufacturer Nichols (NICL) was previously on the Main Market and it has a long track record. Merseyside-based Nichols supplies Vimto soft drinks, as well as brands such as Sunkist, under licence. The Middle East is an important market and international markets make a similar contribution to revenues as the UK. In recent years, Nichols has managed to grow revenues and profit margins. At the interim stage, revenues were flat at £54.7 million but underlying profit rose from £10 million to £10.9 million.

Sugary drinks have a negative image but Nichols is already selling more reduced sugar drinks and the international nature of the business also helps. In fact, the latest acquisition is the Feel Good brand of juice drinks with no added sugar, which can be marketed in the UK and internationally.

An improvement in pre-tax profit from £25.7 million to £27.9 million is forecast for this year, rising to £30 million next year. The shares are trading on just under 22 times 2015-16 prospective earnings. There has been consistent growth in dividends and they are expected to reach 24.4p a share this year and 26.4p a share in 2015-16. That reflects the track record and the potential value of the brand to an acquirer.

Nichols PLC (NICL:LSE) set a new 52-week high during today's trading session when it reached 1,485. Over this period, the share price is up 48.87%.

Trading statement Fri 8 Jan

Trading Update
RNS
RNS Number : 2157L
Nichols PLC
08 January 2016





Date:
Embargoed until 07.00 Friday 8th January 2016



Contacts:
John Nichols, Non-Executive Chairman

Marnie Millard, Group Chief Executive

Tim Croston, Group Chief Financial Officer

Nichols plc

Telephone: 01925 222222

Website:www.nicholsplc.co.uk




Nick Lyon
Richard Lindley

Hudson Sandler
N+1 Singer (Nominated Adviser)

Telephone:020 7796 4133
Telephone: 0207 496 3000

Email: nichols@hspr.com
Website: www.n1singer.com






Nichols plc

Trading Update


Nichols plc ("the Group"), today issues the following trading update for the year ended 31 December 2015.



Group revenue for the year was £109.3m, which is in line with the prior year and management expectations.



Whilst the UK soft drinks market has remained challenging, the Group has a strong international business where sales grew by 1.5% compared to 2014 and 3.9% on a constant currency basis. Reported export sales in the year totalled £24.4m, an increase of £0.4m. This was despite the difficulties in shipping to Yemen, due to the ongoing conflict in the region.



Total UK sales were £84.9m, a marginal decline of 0.3% compared to 2014 although slightly ahead of the total UK soft drinks market performance which declined by 0.7% (Nielsen year to 5 December 2015). Within the UK, we maintained our value over volume strategy for the Vimto brand, resulting in growth of 4% in the Still category and a 7% decline in the promotionally led Carbonate category.



In summary, Group 2015 sales performance is per our expectations and whilst the UK market remains challenging, our international business has continued to deliver good growth. We expect full year profit and earnings per share to be ahead of the prior year and in line with market expectations.



The Group's Preliminary results will be announced on 2 March 2016.

Broker Forecast - Investec issues a broker note on Nichols PLC
Investec today reaffirms its hold investment rating on Nichols PLC (LON:NICL) and cut its price target to 1440p (from 1500p). Story provided by StockMarketWire.com

Broker Forecast - Investec issues a broker note on Nichols PLC
Investec today upgrades its investment rating on Nichols PLC (LON:NICL) to buy (from hold) and left its price target at 1440p. Story provided by StockMarketWire.com

Nichols schedules prelim results
StockMarketWire.com
Nichols has confirmed that the Company will be announcing its preliminary results, for the year ended 31 December 2015, on Wednesday 2 March 2016.



At 12:59pm: (LON:NICL) Nichols PLC share price was +20.5p at 1244.5p

Broker Forecast - Berenberg issues a broker note on Nichols PLC
Berenberg today initiates coverage of Nichols PLC (LON:NICL) with a buy investment rating and price target of 1450p. Story provided by StockMarketWire.com

Market Buzz

Berenberg initiates coverage of mid-cap drinks makers

Fri, 26 February 2015

(ShareCast News) - Berenberg initiated coverage on the four UK mid-cap soft drinks manufacturers, highlighting a preference for Britvic and Nichols.
"We feel this market is often overlooked by investors due to the lack of absolute growth in the end-markets. However, we believe these businesses score well on several elements relative to our broader UK mid-cap coverage."

The bank said they typically generate strong and stable margins driven by operating efficiencies, they can deploy capital on value-accretive M&A, and they have demonstrated a good level of success by UK and international expansion.

It started Britvic and Nichols with a 'buy' rating and 850p and 1,450p price targets, respectively.

The bank said its preference for these two was mainly due to a combination of a propensity for future EPS upgrades and reasonable valuations.

On Britvic, it said EPS momentum was stabilising and there are several areas that could surprise to the upside, such as margin uplift from supply chain investment, Fruit Shoot's move into the $2bn US multipack market, and the International division returning to profitability.

"We believe these upside risks are not reflected in the current 14.3x FY 2016E P/E multiple, which makes the stock the cheapest among soft drinks peers and in the broader consumer sector."

As far as Nichols is concerned, it said recent acquisitions of Feel Good and Noisy Drinks have helped drive strong EPS momentum. In addition, the company generates much higher margins and return on invested capital than most peers.

Berenberg started AG Barr and Fevertree with 'hold' ratings and 550p and 570p targets, respectively.

It said Fevertree was an exciting prospect and demonstrates many of the characteristics it looks for, but growth potential is more than reflected in the valuation.

On AG Barr, it said the group has a number of opportunities but it is too early to be confident of success, so the current valuation is justified.

Preliminary results

3 Mar Investec 1,440.00 Buy

Nichols steady

StockMarketWire.com

Nichols Plc said its FY group trading performance is in line with management expectations. It expects to deliver FY earnings in line with market expectations.

"Whilst trading conditions within the UK grocery market remain challenging, our UK revenues are benefiting from the incremental impact of both The Noisy Drinks Company Limited, of which we acquired the remaining equity in January 2016, and the Feel Good brand acquired in July 2015," the company said.

"This year we have launched Vimto Remix which adds new exciting flavours to the Vimto range. As with all of our new product introductions in recent years, Remix is only available in no added sugar options.

"Our focus has also been on preparing for the re-launch of the Feel Good brand, a range of premium adult juice drinks which have no added sugar and contain 100% natural ingredients. The re-launch will be introduced to the trade ahead of the summer trading season."

Interims Thursday 21 July

Interim results

16:50 26/07/2016
Broker Forecast - Numis issues a broker note on Nichols PLC

Numis today reaffirms its hold investment rating on Nichols PLC (LON:NICL) and raised its price target to 1380p (from 1342p). Story provided by StockMarketWire.com

On Thursday, Nichols PLC (NICL:LSE) closed at 1,453.00, -2.42% below its 52-week high of 1,489.00, set on Jul 18, 2016.

Nichols PLC (NICL:LSE) set a new 52-week high during today's trading session when it reached 1,535.00. Over this period, the share price is up 7.34%.

14 Dec
Whitman Howard
1,760.00
Buy

Director Deals - Nichols PLC (NICL)
BFN
John Gittins, Non Executive Director, bought 1,280 shares in the company on the 15th December 2016 at a price of 1558.00p. The Director now holds 1,280 shares representing 0.00% of the shares in issue.

Story provided by StockMarketWire.com
Director deals data provided by www.directorsholdings.com

Nichols PLC (NICL:LSE) set a new 52-week high during today's trading session when it reached 1,650.00. Over this period, the share price is up 15.42%.

Trading statement Tues 10 Jan.

Trading Update
RNS
RNS Number : 7306T
Nichols PLC
10 January 2017
 
 
 
Date:
Embargoed until 07.00 Tuesday 10 January 2017
 
Contacts:
John Nichols, Non-Executive Chairman
Marnie Millard, Group Chief Executive Officer
Tim Croston, Group Chief Financial Officer
Andrew Milne, Group Commercial Director
 
Nichols plc
Telephone:  01925 222222
Website:www.nicholsplc.co.uk
 
 
Alex Brennan/Nick Lyon
Richard Lindley
Hudson Sandler
N+1 Singer (Nominated Adviser)
Telephone:020 7796 4133
Telephone:  0207 496 3000
Email: nichols@hspr.com
Website: www.n1singer.com
 
Nichols plc
Trading Update
 
Nichols plc ("the Group"), today issues the following trading update for the year ended 31 December 2016.
 
Group revenue for the year has increased by 7.3% totalling £117.3m (2015: £109.3m). The growth has come from both the UK and International business activities.
 
In the UK, sales have increased by 6.9% against the prior year to £90.7m (2015: £84.8m). This increase has been driven by sales of the Vimto brand, which were 5% ahead of the prior year, and the incremental revenues from the successful acquisition of The Noisy Drinks Co. Ltd. This performance is significantly ahead of the UK soft drinks market which grew by 0.8% in the year to 3 December 2016 (source: Nielsen).    
 
International sales grew by 8.8% to £26.6m, an increase of £2.2m versus 2015.
 
In summary, the Board is pleased with the 2016 Group sales performance and expects full year profit and earnings per share to be ahead of the prior year and in line with expectations.
 
The Group's Preliminary results will be announced on 2 March 2017.
 

10 Jan
N+1 Singer
N/A
Corporate
10 Jan
Whitman Howard
1,760.00
Buy
10 Jan
Shore Capital
N/A
Hold

12:20 11/01/2017
Broker Forecast - Numis issues a broker note on Nichols PLC
Numis today downgrades its investment rating on Nichols PLC (LON:NICL) to reduce (from hold) and cut its price target to 1368p (from 1380p). Story provided by StockMarketWire.com

Preliminary results

2 Mar
Shore Capital
N/A
Hold
2 Mar
Whitman Howard
1,760.00
Buy

12:40 08/03/2017
Broker Forecast - Numis issues a broker note on Nichols PLC
Numis today upgrades its investment rating on Nichols PLC (LON:NICL) to hold (from reduce) and set its price target at 1620p. Story provided by StockMarketWire.com

25 Apr
Berenberg
1,800.00
Buy
13 Apr
Whitman Howard
2,300.00
Buy

AGM Trading Update
RNS
RNS Number : 3278D
Nichols PLC
26 April 2017
 
 
Date:
Embargoed until 0700 Wednesday 26 April 2017
 
Contacts:
John Nichols, Non-Executive Chairman
Marnie Millard, Group Chief Executive Officer
Tim Croston, Group Chief Financial Officer
Andrew Milne, Group Commercial Director
 
Nichols plc
Telephone: 01925 222222
Website: www.nicholsplc.co.uk
 
 
Alex Brennan
Richard Lindley
Hudson Sandler
N+1 Singer (Nominated Adviser)
Telephone: 020 7796 4133
Telephone: 0207 496 3000
Email: nichols@hspr.com
 
 
 
Nichols plc
("the Group")
AGM trading update
 
John Nichols, Non-Executive Chairman of Nichols plc, the soft drinks group, will make the following statement at the Group's Annual General Meeting to be held at 11.00 am today:
 
Current Trading
 
The Group's trading performance for the first quarter of 2017 is in line with management expectations.
 
In the UK, the Vimto brand continues to outperform the market with reported sales up by 3.4% compared to the first quarter of 2016. This compares favourably to the total soft drinks market growth of 1.2% in the same period (Nielsen: ytd to 25 March 2017).
 
In our international markets, sales to Africa have maintained the growth momentum from 2016 and as anticipated, the first quarter has been a busy period for sales of Vimto concentrate to the Middle East ahead of Ramadan which begins at the end of May.
 
Board update
 
The recruitment process for a Non-Executive Director to replace John Longworth, who steps down from the Board today, is well under way and we expect to give a further update at the time of our 2017 interim results announcement on 20 July 2017.  
 
Outlook
 
We anticipate the UK soft drinks market will remain challenging throughout 2017 with the addition of currency related input cost inflation to an already price competitive environment.
 
Against that backdrop, we are pleased with the Group's trading performance for the first quarter and currently expect full year earnings to be in line with market expectations.
  
 
 
- ENDS -

7 Jun
Whitman Howard
2,300.00
Buy

Interim results and board appointment

2017 Trading Update
RNS
RNS Number : 7064Z
Nichols PLC
19 December 2017
 
 
 
Date:
Embargoed until 07.00 Tuesday 19 December 2017
 
Contacts:
John Nichols, Non-Executive Chairman
Marnie Millard, Group Chief Executive Officer
Tim Croston, Group Chief Financial Officer
Andrew Milne, Group Commercial Director
 
Nichols plc
Telephone:  01925 222222
Website:www.nicholsplc.co.uk
 
 
Nick Lyon/Hattie O'Reilly
Richard Lindley
Hudson Sandler
N+1 Singer (Nominated Adviser)
Telephone:020 7796 4133
Telephone:  0207 496 3000
Email: nichols@hspr.com
Website: www.n1singer.com
 
 
Nichols plc
2017 Trading Update
 
Nichols plc ("the Group"), today issues the following trading update for the year ending 31 December 2017.
 
We anticipate Group sales for the year ending 31 December 2017 to continue the strong trend reported at the half year. This sales performance is again being delivered from both our UK and international business.
 
UK sales of the Vimto brand are 9.0% ahead of the prior year (as at November 2017). This performance is significantly ahead of the UK market growth of 2.3% (Nielsen year to date 2 December 2017). As previously reported, this strong sales performance helps mitigate the margin impact from the increased input costs affecting the industry.   
 
Internationally, our business in Africa has again delivered an excellent performance with full year revenues anticipated to be in excess of 20% ahead of the strong prior year comparatives.
 
Whilst 2017 sales are still expected to be ahead of the prior year, the recent escalation of hostilities in Yemen has resulted in the supply route to our Yemeni customer being blockaded. Therefore, at this time we are unable to send any further Vimto concentrate shipments that were planned for December 2017. As a consequence, management currently expects adjusted Group Profit Before Tax for the year ending 31 December 2017 to be in line with the prior year.
 
 
Outlook 
 
For the year ahead, we are confident that the strong sales trend will continue in the UK with the Vimto brand being supported by a new marketing campaign launching in the spring. In addition, we are well prepared for the introduction of the Sugar Levy with 100% of the Vimto and Feel Good brands portfolio already below the levy threshold.
 
In our international business, we anticipate the strong growth trend in Africa to continue in 2018. However, the current conflict in the Yemen coupled with some reported slowing in the Saudi economy indicates that sales to the Middle East region in the year ahead are likely to be less than previously anticipated. As a result, management currently expects low single digit percentage profit growth in 2018 in comparison to the current year.
 
In summary, our diversified business model is expected to deliver continued sales growth into 2018 and the Group remains highly profitable. In addition, our strong balance sheet and cash generation supports ongoing investment in our growth strategy and our ability to sustain a progressive dividend policy.     
 
The Group's Preliminary results will be announced on 1 March 2018.

12:00 05/01/2018
Broker Forecast - Numis issues a broker note on Nichols PLC
Numis today reaffirms its hold investment rating on Nichols PLC (LON:NICL) and cut its price target to 1680p (from 1890p). Story provided by StockMarketWire.com

Finals Thurs 1 March 18

Preliminary results

AGM trading update
RNS
RNS Number : 9970L
Nichols PLC
25 April 2018


Date:
Embargoed until 0700 Wednesday 25 April 2018

Contacts:
John Nichols, Non-Executive Chairman
Marnie Millard, Group Chief Executive Officer
Tim Croston, Group Chief Financial Officer
Andrew Milne, Group Commercial Director

Nichols plc
Telephone: 01925 222 222
Website: www.nicholsplc.co.uk



Alex Brennan/ Hattie O'Reilly
Richard Lindley

Hudson Sandler
N+1 Singer (Nominated Adviser)

Telephone: 020 7796 4133
Email: nichols@hudsonsandler.com
Telephone: 0207 496 3000
Website: www.n1singer.com

Nichols plc
("the Group")
AGM trading update

John Nichols, Non-Executive Chairman of Nichols plc, the soft drinks group, will make the following statement at the Group's Annual General Meeting to be held at 11.00 am today:

Current Trading

UK revenue for the first quarter of 2018 is ahead of the prior year both on a reported and like for like* basis, and compares favourably to the total UK soft drinks market growth of 2.6% (Nielsen year to date to 24 March 2018). As previously reported and as anticipated, the ongoing conflict in Yemen and the timing of the majority of shipments for Ramadan 2018 falling into Q4 2017 has impacted international sales in Q1 2018.

Outlook

We maintain our previous guidance for 2018 and currently expect full year earnings to be in line with market expectations.
*Like for like sales excludes the incremental sales from D J Drink Solutions Ltd acquired in June 2017

- ENDS -

08:50 01/05/2018
Broker Forecast - Shore Capital issues a broker note on Nichols PLC
Shore Capital today reaffirms its sell investment rating on Nichols PLC (LON:NICL) and raised its price target to 1540p (from 1485p). Story provided by StockMarketWire.com Broker Forecasts data provided by www.sharesmagazine.co.uk

Notice of Results
RNS
RNS Number : 3125S
Nichols PLC
25 June 2018



Nichols plc
NOTICE OF INTERIM RESULTS & ANALYST PRESENTATION

Nichols plc, the soft drinks group, will be announcing its interim results for the six months ended 30 June 2018 on Thursday 19th July 2018.

2018 Trading Update
RNS
RNS Number : 5583M
Nichols PLC
09 January 2019



Date:
Embargoed until 0700 Wednesday 9 January 2019

Contacts:

Marnie Millard, Group Chief Executive Officer
Tim Croston, Group Chief Financial Officer
Andrew Milne, Group Commercial Director

Nichols plc
Telephone: 01925 222222
Website:www.nicholsplc.co.uk


Alex Brennan / Hattie O'Reilly
Richard Lindley / Rachel Hayes
Hudson Sandler
N+1 Singer (Nominated Adviser)
Telephone:020 7796 4133
Telephone: 0207 496 3000
Email: nichols@hudsonsandler.com
Website: www.n1singer.com


Nichols plc
2018 Trading Update

Nichols plc ("the Group"), today issues the following trading update for the year ended 31 December 2018.

We are pleased to report that full year Group sales totalled £142.0m, an increase of 6.9% compared to the prior year.

This increase was driven by an excellent performance in our UK business where sales grew by 12.6% to £114.6m.

During the year, we celebrated the Vimto brand's 110th year and we are delighted to report that once again, the brand has significantly outperformed the UK soft drinks category and gained market share. Vimto sales increased by 12.9% during the year compared to the total UK soft drinks market growth of 7.4% (Nielsen MAT year to 1 December 2018).
Elsewhere in the UK, sales in the Out of Home channel increased by 15.1% compared to the prior year. This strong performance was driven by sales of both our dispensed soft drinks and frozen beverage products which reflects the significant investment in this part of our business over recent years.

In the international business, a strong sales performance in Africa during the second half of the year delivered full year growth of 6.5% in this region.
As anticipated in our 2017 Preliminary Results Statement (1 March 2018), sales to the Middle East were down on the prior year, due to the ongoing conflict in Yemen and the timing of shipments to Saudi Arabia. As a result, sales to the Middle East region totalled £9.6m (2017: £13.0m).

The Group's total international sales were £27.4m (2017: £31.0m).

In summary, the Board is very pleased with the 2018 Group sales performance and expects full year profit to be ahead of the prior year and at least in line with current market expectations*.



The Group's Preliminary results will be announced on 27 February 2019.

This announcement contains inside information for the purposes of Article 7 of EU Regulation 596/2014.

* Company compiled market consensus of £31.3m profit before tax.

Notes to Editors:

Nichols plc is an international soft drinks business with sales in over 85 countries, selling products in both the Still and Carbonate categories. The Group is home to the iconic Vimto brand which is popular in the UK and around the world, particularly in the Middle East and Africa. Other brands in its portfolio include Feel Good, Starslush, ICEE, Levi Roots and Sunkist.

,