Groupe Bel, the French cheese maker behind The Laughing Cow and Babybel, has reported a 3.5% rise in first-quarter sales, helped by growth in western Europe and the Middle East.

The company posted sales of EUR664m (US$907.8m) for the three months to the end of March, up from EUR642m in the first quarter of 2013.

Sales in western Europe, Bel’s largest region, increased 4.9% to EUR261m. The company’s Near and Middle East division saw sales jump 16.6% to EUR102m.

Bel’s performance in that region made the division its third-largest by sales, overtaking the combined Americas/Asia Pacific unit, which saw sales fall 4.4% due to foreign exchange.

Bel did not provide figures on first-quarter earnings. However, it admitted: “With these economic and political factors weighing on its short-term profitability, the group is pursuing its efforts to strengthen its operating excellence.”

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.