Dismal weather in the run-up to the crucial summer season will dent profit growth at Geest this year, the company has warned. Chairman Ian Menzies-Gow said wet and cold weather in May and June had a major impact on salad sales and would dampen demand for the rest of the summer. Bagged salads represent a significant chunk of Geest's UK turnover and the company has slashed full-year profit forecasts by more than 10% as a result. Sales growth forecasts for the UK fresh prepared food business for the six months to June 30 have been revised from 12-13% to 8%. However, Geest has posted double digit rises in ready meals, pizza and chilled bread over the last five months. {{NEWS }}

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