Profits have surged at Vimto maker Nichols thanks to its strategic shift to focus on the bottom line and exit low-margin lines.
Revenues at the group in 2025 increased 1.3% to £175.1m, driven by higher volumes in the UK packaged division. The small increase also reflected the switch to a lower-revenue but higher-margin model for the international business of selling concentrates to African markets and the exit of the Starblush brand.
Overall packaged sales rose 1.8%, with a 3.1% jump in the UK, which the group attributed to innovation and distribution gains. Vimto scored its highest-ever retail sales value in the year of £129.1m as it launched new products and gained market share across squash, energy drinks and RTD subcategories.
Nichols boosted EBITDA by 25% in the year to £29.4m as margins expanded, while pre-tax profits increased 21.5% to £29.2m. The group said it had managed to offset inflationary pressures by a “disciplined and robust focus on cost management”, which was enhanced by the implementation of a new ERP software system.
“As a result of the continued execution of our growth strategy, Nichols delivered another strong performance in 2025, delivering solid profit growth,” CEO Andrew Milne added.
“In the UK, Vimto has grown across its four key subcategories, reinforcing the enduring strength and appeal of our iconic brand. Growth has been driven by expanded distribution, investment in our brand and our proven ability to bring compelling new products to market.
“Our international business delivered impressive growth in Africa, supported by our strategic shift towards a margin-enhancing concentrate model across several west African markets.”
Nichols said trading so far in 2026 had been positive and in line with expectations
“We have an exciting pipeline of initiatives and plans across our markets in the year ahead and remain focused on delivering further progress against our medium-term ambitions, leveraging the strength of the Vimto brand, the group’s diversified business model and strong financial position,” Milne added.
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