NETHERLANDS. Henri Wintermans Cigars has reported a considerable increase in its worldwide travel retail sales volumes by +20% for the financial year ended 30 June, compared to 2002.
The Dutch group said sales volumes increased in most regions around the world. Most European countries showed very positive developments – especially the Registered Mobile Retailers (RMO or ferries, cruiselines and airlines) – as well as countries in the Americas.
Sales in Asia Pacific were affected by the effects of the SARS outbreak but, nevertheless, sales exceeded the volume target set over a year ago. In general, Wintermans said, the first two quarters of calendar year 2003 were particularly satisfying. “There is a clear pattern towards the belief that travelling will pick-up again soon,” said Henri Wintermans area marketing manager travel retail Erwin Broeren.
Pictured: Henri Wintermans Cigars head office in Eersel reported its year-end results this week
From a brand perspective, Café Crème continued to grow, further establishing its number one position in travel retail for over two decades. Again, sales of Café Crème Oriental Aroma – the flavoured Café Crème variant – versus last year more than doubled, making it a powerful third best selling Café Crème variant.
The recently introduced Café Crème Filter – with built-in filter – showed an impressive start after its launch earlier this year. Sales of Henri Wintermans brands Slim Panatella, Half Corona and Corona de Luxe, and Petit brands (Petit, Petit Light and Petit Dominican) also increased compared to the year before, although slightly less than expected.
The acquisition of the Canadian Old Port Cigar Company, meant an expansion of the travel retail portfolio with the brands Colts, Colts Mild and Old Port. Although the acquisition was made in 2001, this financial year was the first in which the effect was fully noticeable.
For the coming financial year Henri Wintermans Cigars said it will continue its Café Crème focus, however not ignoring the three other main brands Henri Wintermans, Petit and Old Port/Colts.
“Henri Wintermans will continue to build its travel retail business by becoming even more active with instore presence, special packaging and tailor-made promotions”, said Broeren. “Our company expects to report a growth in travel retail sales volume again next year.”
