Wrigley reports rising gum sales

By Catherine Boal

- Last updated on GMT

The world's largest chewing gum producer, the Wm Wrigley Jr
Company, has announced record sales in the first quarter, boosted
by new product launches and an increased worldwide presence.

In the three months prior to June this year, sales for the gum and candy company, who own brands such as Doublemint and Juicy Fruit, had risen 16 per cent to €0.9bn while gross profit for the same period was €0.49m.

Last year, US-based Wrigley expanded further into overseas markets such as France, Canada, China and India, further consolidating its position as world leader.

Following last year's acquisition of the mint and breath-freshener brands Altoids, Life Savers and Sugus, the company have made inroads into the non-gum market which now accounts for 10 per cent of total sales.

And new flavour innovations contributed to rising sales with Altoids Mango Sours and Crème Savers Tropicals hitting the US market six months ago.

In addition, the key brand Juicy Fruit has seen the introduction of two new fruit combinations - strappleberry and grapermelon.

Chocolate-coated Altoid mints are among the new launches planned for the coming year, the mints will be on sale in time for the Christmas season.

Company president, Bill Wrigley Jr, said: "Over the past twelve months, we have taken the necessary steps to establish a base of business upon which we can build. As 2006 progresses, we anticipate improved momentum for these brands in response to our steady investment in innovation and brand support behind them."

Wrigley currently has a 35% share of the gum industry worldwide and sell their products in 180 countries.

According to market researchers, Leatherhead International, the global gum industry was worth over €10.9bn in 2005 and North America is the largest market, accounting for 24 per cent of world wide consumption.

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