Diageo, the world's biggest producer of alcoholic drinks which makes Guinness and Baileys, today posted rising third-quarter sales on the back of growth in emerging markets.
The company said in a trading update that sales grew by 6% in its third quarter, or three months to March.
However, that marked a slowdown from 7% growth during the same time the previous financial year.
"Our year to date performance continues to demonstrate that Diageo is well positioned with our balance of businesses across categories and with a large and increasing presence in the faster growing emerging markets," said chief executive Paul Walsh.
"We remain confident that the investments we have made and the changes we have implemented to our operating model will continue to drive improving performance," he added.
The brewing giant, which makes Guinness, Johnnie Walker whisky and Smirnoff vodka, was also boosted by the recent purchases of Turkish spirits group Mey Icki and Ethiopian brewer Meta Abo. The London-listed group also produces Baileys liqueur, Captain Morgan rum and Tanqueray gin.
