Tobacco company Gallaher Group said today current trading remains in line with management and market expectations, shareholders were told at today's AGM.
The makers of the Benson & Hedges and Silk Cut brands said it is continuing to extend its market leadership in Ireland. It said it has increased volumes in Ireland despite recent steep increases in cigarette prices.
In Ireland, proceedings against tobacco companies have been commenced on behalf of over 430 individual plaintiffs, of which around 180 are against Gallaher - although no statements of claim have yet been served against the company.
Gallaher's chairman Mr Peter Wilson said today "Gallaher has always maintained confidence in its ability to defend smoking and health actions. We will continue to defend ourselves vigorously, as and when the need arises. Gallaher will not settle actions."