Cadbury sales “robust” in UK

In a trading update, the confectionary group says it saw improved trading during April and May, and expects to meet forecasts for full-year sales growth.

While it says that conditions remained challenging in Europe, particularly in France and Spain, its British operations gained market share owing to the strong Easter trading season and the relaunch of its Wispa bar.

It says that chocolate sales remained “robust”, while gum and sweets returned to growth after a slow first quarter performance.

Analysts are predicting that sales for Cadbury in the first half will rise around 3% and rise to 5% in the second.

Chief executive Todd Stitzer says the improved performance during April and May was due to “the absence of de-stocking in the United States and some improved business performances”.

In the UK this year, Trident launched a major promotion to give Beyonce fans a chance to attend a free concert at The O2 Arena featuring the international superstar.

Consumers were given the opportunity to win a free ticket to attend the concert every time they bought a pack of Trident gum.

Last year, Cadbury relaunched Wispa as a permanent countline five years after it was axed because of plummeting sales.

The decision followed its successful return as a limited-edition product in 2007.