BRITISH American Tobacco (BAT) said it was in a resilient position to cope with the economic slowdown, as it showed profits for the last half year jump to £936m.
The cigarette group, which operates the Rothmans factory in Darlington, said pre-tax profits rose by 33 per cent in the half year to June 30, while operating profits rose by 11 per cent to £1.3bn.
BAT, whose deputy chairman is Conservative leadership contender Kenneth Clarke, said volumes of cigarettes sold were slightly higher than the same time last year, at 399 billion, with its four global brands - Lucky Strike, Kent, Dunhill and Pall Mall - performing well with nine per cent growth.
BAT said although it had to face the fact that economic conditions were deteriorating around the world, it confidently expected to "continue building sustainable shareholder value".
Commenting on the effect of the global economic slowdown, Michael Prideaux, corporate and regulatory affairs director, said: "We are resilient, but not immune. Sometimes in an economic slowdown, people trade down to cheaper brands, some do give up, but it's mainly down-trading.
He said of the half year: "I think it has been a very good all-round performance."
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