Net sales increased by 12% to $1.9 billion for the half-year ended October 31, 2011.
According to the group, the uplift in sales was due to a solid performance by its brands in the US and strong growth in developed and emerging markets overseas, notably Germany, Mexico, Russia, the UK, Turkey, France, Brazil, Australia and Canada.
The Louisiana-based group - which also owns Southern Comfort, Finlandia and Woodford Reserve - said the gains had offset “soft performance” in markets such as Spain and Poland.
Paul Varga, Brown-Forman’s chief executive officer, said: “Performance was led by the Jack Daniel’s trademark, which grew volumes globally at a double-digit rate, and drove the company’s widespread geographic growth.
“This performance was aided by compelling portfolio innovation, particularly in the Jack Daniel’s family, growth in our super-premium brands, and continued international growth of the brand portfolio."
