Imperial Tobacco CEO Alison Cooper Interviewed on Preliminary Results 2013

LONDON, November 5, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --

In a preliminary results interview, Alison Cooper, CEO of Imperial Tobacco, discusses the group's full-year results and updates on brand performance.

In the interview she says it has been "a huge year for the business".

"It's been great to see the robust performance we've delivered given that it's a very challenging environment for consumer goods companies at the moment and that robust performance has come through in 6% earnings growth and a strong 10% growth in the dividend per share as well."

Cooper gives an update on brand and regional performances, which are both now being reported and managed on a new basis. She also discusses Fontem Ventures, the new standalone business due to launch its first products in 2014.

Looking ahead she says 2014 will be an important year of transition. "It's about backing growth and all those growth initiatives in the business. But, at the same time, recognising that we need to build resilience."

Reporting his final set of results prior to retirement after 25 years with the business, CFO Robert Dyrbus gives an update on costs savings, net debt, cash conversion and the dividend.

The interview and transcript are available now on http://video.merchantcantos.com.

MerchantCantos produces in-depth interviews, documentaries and webcasts with senior company executives. If you would like to contact us, please email prnsupport@merchantcantos.com or phone +44-207-936-1352.