Diageo share price: Group updates on nine-month performance

Diageo (LON:DGE) has this morning updated the market on its nine-month performance. Here are the highlights from Diageo’s statement with more to follow:

In the nine months ended 31 March 2015, net sales declined 0.3% on an organic basis and were down 0.7% in the quarter, with volume down 1.7% in the nine month period and 0.8% in the quarter.
In the nine month period reported net sales grew 4.6%. Acquisitions, principally United Spirits Limited, contributed £700 million partially offset by an adverse impact of currency movements of £298 million and a reduction of £28 million due to disposals.
Following developments in Venezuela, including changes to the currency exchange mechanism, the group has translated its Venezuelan operations results for the quarter and for the nine months ended 31 March 2015 at a rate of $1 = VEF 192.95 (£1 = VEF 285.57). The organic growth rates for the first half shown in the table below reflect this exchange rate.
Ivan Menezes, Chief Executive of Diageo commented:

“Our performance in the quarter reflects continued tough conditions in the emerging markets and subdued consumer demand in some developed markets. However it also reflects the actions we have taken to ensure we are building a stronger business. Of key importance is that depletions continue to outpace shipments as we embed our sell out culture. In addition, our decision to destock some wholesale channels in South East Asia and West LAC will improve our ability to track consumer and customer trends and reduce future volatility.
As of 07:06 BST, Thursday, 16 April, Diageo plc share price is 1,967.00p.