Lindt & Sprüngli today (24 August) revealed an increase in first-half profits, boosted by increased volumes and innovation.

For the six months to the end of June, the company earned CHF24.8m (US$23.8m) compared to a profit of CHF2.7m last year.

The growth, Lindt said, was primarily fuelled by increased volumes and improvements of product mixes as well as the launch of innovative products.

Operating profit stood at CHF33.9m, representing an increase of 40.7% on the prior year period as a result of streamlining measures across all areas of the business.

Sales climbed 7.9% to reach CHF1.06bn.

The firm said it expects organic growth in sales for the full year of 5% to 7%, and an EBIT of CHF300m to CHF340m.