Bel sales lifted by FX, organic growth

• Bel Q1 sales up 7.5%
• Strong growth in emerging markets

French cheese maker Bel reported a 7.5% rise in sales for the first quarter, rising to EUR714m (US$799m).

Growth was propelled by a 5.2% favourable impact of currency exchange as well as 2.3% organic growth.

Bel's Near and Middle East division reported a 22.7% rise in sales. Sales from its combined Americas and Asia Pacific arm grew 29.5%. Revenue in Greater Africa climbed by 11.9%. The only region to report negative sales trends was north and east Europe, where sales fell 9.8%.

Commenting on its full-year outlook, Bel said: "Bel remains confident about its growth prospects, thanks to the commitment of its employees, the strength of brands and its ongoing policy of innovation."

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