Drinks giant Diageo today said it had met its objectives for the year after seeing its four main markets grow in line with expectations.
The group, which owns the Guinness, Johnnie Walker and Smirnoff brands, told the City it had "built upon the positive trends achieved in the prior year".
Diageo added that moves to separate its Burger King business were moving ahead as planned, with the chain showing signs of an improved performance.
The trading update covers a year in which Diageo completed the acquisition of the Seagram spirits and wine business and the disposal of its Pillsbury food operation.
Chief executive Mr Paul Walsh said: "For the third consecutive year Diageo has achieved strong top line growth in premium drinks. In the year to come we will maintain our consistent approach to continue to generate growth."
He believed the recent acquisition of brands including Captain Morgan, Crown Royal, Windsor and Cacique, would further boost the showing.
The company said it had been buoyed by the performance of its products in the four major markets of Britain, North America, Ireland and Spain.
Year-on-year volume growth has been achieved by the company's frontline brands, with stronger performances by Guinness and Johnnie Walker in the second half of the year offsetting a tougher start to the 12 month period.
Diageo also reported a doubling in the sales of volume of Smirnoff Ice during the year.
However, the company warned that volume growth in Latin America during the second half of the financial year had been affected by the region's worsening economic and political situation.
Stock level reductions and an increase in prices to reflect currency changes has affected brands in the region, including Johnnie Walker Red.
The group is due to announce its results for the year to June 30th on September 5th.
PA