Shire reports double-digit growth in 2013

Shire has expressed confidence in its 2014 growth prospects after seeing a double-digit improvement in sales during 2013.

Its latest financial results revealed that the company generated $4.76 billion (2.85 billion pounds) in product sales last year, up by 12 per cent compared to 2012, while total revenues rose by nine percent year on year to $4.93 billion.

During the last 12 months, the firm has been able to increase its focus on rare diseases and recently completed the acquisition of ViroPharma, the integration of which is proceeding according to plan.

It also sold off its interest in the Dermagraft product and has progressed the development of its various pipeline projects. The organisation expects to continue this positive momentum into 2014.

Dr Flemming Ornskov, chief executive officer of Shire, said: "Shire has delivered excellent financial results in 2013 and now has the foundations in place for further future growth."

Last month, the firm announced that Susan Kilsby is to become its next company chair, effective as of the conclusion of its annual general meeting on April 29th 2014.