with correspondents in Japan, Russia, USA, Sweden; edited by M.Andrew, FIJEV

From Rémy Cointreau latest announcement: "The 2000/01 financial year marked an important phase in the development of the Rémy Cointreau Group. Profit on ordinary activities up 71% to €94m, operating margin increased to19.9% and earnings per share improved by 46% to €2.04. On a like-for-like basis, Rémy Cointreau's sales increased by 8% and its operating profit improved by 19%. This favorable performance was due to the Group's committed policy of supporting its key brands.

Cognac
The Cognac division enjoyed a 22% increase in sales and an 8% increase in volumes as a result of a buoyant US market. The success of Rémy Martin's premium products was reflected in an improvement of 37.4% in operating profit and an operating margin of 35.4%. This achievement was supported by a 21% increase in advertising and promotional expenditure, representing 31% of the gross margin."

At the same time Cognac Rémy Martin has re-designed its Internet presence www.remy.com and began RemySpace program. It is worth participating!

16 June 2001