ANALYST VIEWS: IS BAT ABLE TO BUILD ON IMPROVING SALES?
MARTIN DEBOO | INVESTEC
These figures are quite strong and show the defensive qualities of the stock. There is pricing strength in the tobacco industry and volumes and margins are improving. BAT is in line with Philip Morris but pulling ahead of Imperial Tobacco.
TINA COOK | CHARLES STANLEY
BAT has released a reassuring quarter three trading update with pleasing growth in revenue and profit. Organic revenue is up seven per cent, reflecting continued positive pricing despite challenging economic conditions. BAT remains on course to meet its target of 35 per cent for the full year.
KEITH BOWMAN | HARGREAVES LANSDOWN
Despite an early year wobble, BAT is again underlining its defensive growth attributes. Although geographical performance remains mixed, volumes have made some recovery, with its four key brands leading the way, whilst strong finances underwrite an ongoing and supportive share buy-back scheme.