Diageo PLC - London-based brewer and distiller with brands including Baileys, Tanqueray, Johnnie Walker, Smirnoff and Captain Morgan - Ahead of annual general meeting on Thursday, Chief Executive Officer Debra Crew says she is "excited" by "the many growth opportunities we see in front of us". Diageo says it remains well-positioned to deliver its medium-term guidance for financial 2023 to financial 2025 of organic sales growth consistently in the range of 5% to 7%, alongside organic operating profit growth sustainably between 6% to 9%. The company's financial years end on June 30.

"I firmly believe the strength of our portfolio, our diversified footprint and our deep consumer insights will drive sustainable long-term growth and generate value for shareholders," says Crew. "While we expect operating environment challenges to persist, with ongoing cost pressure and geopolitical and macroeconomic uncertainty, we will move with speed and agility and continue to invest in marketing and innovation. I am confident in the resilience of our business and our ability to navigate these headwinds while executing our strategic priorities."

Crew was appointed CEO in June following the death of her predecessor Ivan Menezes. It was already planned for her to takeover in July, as Menezes was due to retire at the end of June.

Current stock price: 3,028.00 pence, up 0.2%

12-month change: down 21%

By Greg Rosenvinge, Alliance News reporter

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