Associated British Foods plc issues its third quarter management statement, in accordance with the requirements of the UK Listing Authority’s Disclosure and Transparency rules, for the 40 weeks ended 20 June 2009.

Third quarter highlights

Group revenue from continuing operations year to date up 19%

Trading remains in line with expectations

Continued strong trading from Primark, sales year to date ahead 20%

Completion of Azucarera Ebro acquisition

Plan for Illovo rights issue announced

Trading performance
Group revenue for the 40 weeks to 20 June 2009 was 19% ahead of the same period last year after allowing for the exit from US commodity oils and the establishment of the Stratas joint venture.  The weakness of sterling continued to benefit the translation of group revenues which were ahead 8% at constant currency.  The food businesses also benefited from the flow-through of price increases, most of which were achieved in the first half of last year, and some volume growth.  There was continued strong trading from Primark.  Group revenue unadjusted for the impact of disposals was up 14% year to date.