UK meat packer Hilton Food Group has said its first-half results are “in line” with expectations as it battles depressed consumer sentiment throughout Europe.

In its interim update today (6 November), the company said “steady progress” had been made in Western Europe, with volume gains in Holland and the UK. The group described its performance in the challenging markets of Sweden, Ireland and Denmark as “steady”.

“Overall, we are encouraged by Hilton’s progress this year against the backdrop of challenging market conditions,” the company said.

Hilton has a strong balance sheet and the company has previously indicated it is looking at how to best use its cash to expand in the UK and overseas.