Canadian drink and speciality food group Lassonde Industries said it managed to deliver profit growth in the first-quarter, despite sales volume declines across the industry.

Earnings increased 3% in the three months to the end of March, reaching C$5.8m (US$5.7m), the company reported today.

Operating profit climbed 4.3% to C$13.8m, mainly due to additional margins generated by sales growth.

Sales in the period totalled C$240.6m, 3.1% on last year, primarily driven by higher private label sales and higher sales volumes for national brands.