Annual report 2004 (English) - PDF 3546K - Imperial Tobacco

56
… The Division’s economic sales increased by 8.3% in 2004, with tobacco-product
logistics accounting for 41% and general logistics 59%.
Business trends were very different during the year from one country to another.
In Spain, both sectors of activity registered approximately the same growth rate as in
preceding years. In France, however, falling sales of cigarettes and a corresponding
decline in patronage of tobacco outlets translated into decreased sales in both the
tobacco and non-tobacco sectors. Overall, the Division continued to diversify its
activities with, notably, dedicated infrastructure development for the pharmaceuticals
sector and an expanded service offering in Spain, along with the extension of
e-recharges to fi xed telephones in France.
In Morocco, extension of the logistics business into non-tobacco products produced
its fi rst results, particularly with the contracts signed in the telephony sector.
Altadis’ logistics expertise and know-how continue to underpin its current success and
to lay the foundations for its future growth. The Division’s capacity to move into new
markets, such as the pharmaceuticals sector, is a clear demonstration of this asset.”