Cerebos Pacific, the manufacturer of BRAND’s chicken of essence health tonic, announced 13% higher turnover at $210.4 million for the 3rd quarter (3Q2009/10) compared to $186.5 million in the previous corresponding quarter (3Q2009/08). Excluding the exchange gain of $2.4 million, 3rd quarter turnover would have been 12% higher.

Operating profit for 3QFY 2009/10 was 30% higher than the previous corresponding quarter at $28.5 million (FY 2008/09 Operating Profit: $21.9 million). Net Profit was 34% higher at $20.3 million (FY 2008/09 Net Profit: $15.2 million).

In Asia, sales of BRAND’S health supplements for the 3rd quarter rose 18% compared to last year with Thailand and Taiwan driving the growth. Excluding the exchange translation impact of $1.4 million, Health Supplements sales would be 20% higher.

In Australasia, sales grew 7% compared to last year, mainly due to strong contribution from the sauce category. Excluding the exchange translation gain of $3.8 million, Australasia sales would be 3% higher. Following the successful launch of Gravox Gourmet range, a new range of Creamy Sauce products in the Liquid gravy range was recently launched and well received.

Cerebos says it remains cautious but optimistic about the outlook for the balance of the financial year. While the economies of the group’s key markets continue to be stable, the economic situation in Europe and the United States may still have an impact on the operating environment in Asia Pacific.