(AOF) – Bonduelle reported a turnover down 1% on a comparable basis for its third quarter, standing at 564.9 million euros. “Consumption under pressure in the Europe zone over the last quarter led to a decline in volumes sold over the period, particularly marked in large-scale distribution, both for branded and private label brands,” the processing specialist said in a press release. vegetable industry.
In this context, the group limits its turnover growth objective to between 3% and 4%, its current operating profit progression objective remains unchanged at around 15%. It previously expected revenue growth of around 5%.
AOF – LEARN MORE
Learn more about the Agri-food sector
Soaring energy prices and a call for help
In the past, energy represented a fixed cost of 3% of turnover. This year, this percentage rises to 5% or even 7% for VSE-SMEs, according to Ania (National Association of Food Industries. Professionals are very worried because until the end of 2022 they generally benefit from coverage to cushion these increases However, they are not renewed for 2023 and beyond. Consequently, 25 of the main inter-professional organizations (Intercéales, Inaporc, Semae, etc.) are calling on the State for help in the face of the erosion of their margins and their capacity to operate. investment.
The State has proposed several devices, including an “electricity shock absorber”, which are considered insufficient. The organizations also deplore the failure of European negotiations to achieve a price shield to avoid distortions of competition. Agriculture and agri-food demand a maximum ceiling price of €180/MWh while many companies buy at prices above €500/MWh on the French market.