Alliance Boots reports continued strength in 2011

Alliance Boots has highlighted the continued strength of its business during the six months ending on September 30th 2011.

The pharmacy supplier's mid-year update has revealed that the company's trading profit for the period was in line with expectations outlined in its last annual report, while revenue was up by 31.3 percent.

Growth is being driven by the growing internationalisation of the group's brands, which has been facilitated by its recent decision to increase its ownership stake in Hedef Alliance.

The firm has also highlighted the role played by its tight cost control and margin management in aiding business performance, as well as its focus on customer service.

Stefano Pessina, executive chairman of Alliance Boots, said: "We performed strongly in the first half of the year, despite subdued consumer demand and governmental action across Europe to contain growth in healthcare expenditure."

In September 2011, the firm announced that it is also making excellent progress towards achieving corporate social responsibility and sustainability goals.