Nichols ups dividend as annual pretax profit jumps; outlook optimistic
Nichols PLC on Wednesday said it had an ‘exciting pipeline of initiatives’ as it reported a higher profit, dividend and revenue.
The Merseyside, England-based soft drinks company behind Vimto said pretax profit jumped 22% to £29.2 million in 2025 from £24.0 million in 2024.
Adjusted earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation rose 9.6% to £33.8 million from £30.8 million.
Return on capital employed improved to 29.4% in 2025 compared to 23.1% in 2024
Revenue climbed 1.3% to £175.1 million from £172.8 million.
Nichols proposed a final dividend per share of 18.7 pence, up 9.4% from 17.1p a year ago. This would bring the total dividend for 2025 to 33.7p, a 5.3% increase from 32.0p. However, the company declared no special dividend, compared to 54.8p in 2024.
Looking ahead, the company said it continues to benefit from a diversified asset-light business model and an ‘exciting’ portfolio of brands, amid others.
Chief Executive Officer Andrew Milne said: ‘In the UK, Vimto has grown across its four key sub-categories, reinforcing the enduring strength and appeal of our iconic brand. Growth has been driven by expanded distribution, investment in our brand and our proven ability to bring compelling new products to market. Our International business delivered impressive growth in Africa, supported by our strategic shift towards a margin-enhancing concentrate model across several West African markets.’
He added: ‘We have an exciting pipeline of initiatives and plans across our markets in the year ahead and remain focused on delivering further progress against our medium-term ambitions, leveraging the strength of the Vimto brand, the group’s diversified business model and strong financial position.’
Nichols shares rose 4.0% to 946.00 pence each on Wednesday afternoon in London.
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