SOFT drinks firm Nichols continued its outstanding trading performance with strong interim results today and a prediction that full year figures will be “significantly ahead” of last year.

The Newton-le-Willows-based firm, which produces the worldwide favourite Vimto that sells in more than 65 countries, posted a 14.4% jump in group sales of £50.5m in the six months to June 30, and a 20.4% rise in pre-tax profits of £7.2m.

UK volumes were 11% better, compared with a market that achieved just 1% improvement, while UK and international sales both rose by 13%.

The interim dividend has increased by 12.4%, to 5p per share, and net cash reserves showed growth from £11.7m last year to £14.4m.

Nichols produces a range of soft drinks and is a major player in the soft drink dispensing market.

Its latest line is a range of different flavour soft drinks bearing the name of Levi Roots, the entrepreneur who sprang to fame by persuading stars from TV’s Dragons’ Den to invest in his range of ‘Reggae Reggae’ sauces.

The company said since its launch in April, sales of the Caribbean soft drinks range have been in line with expectations.

Chairman John Nichols said today: “I am delighted to announce such excellent results, strongly ahead of last year’s outstanding performance.

“We have again grown our UK market share and our international business continues to thrive.”

He added: “The period of economic uncertainty and cost inflation is likely to continue in the UK for the remainder of the year and into 2012.

“We are confident, however, of maintaining our growth and momentum by continuing to invest in our existing brands, developing new products, and expanding our international business, while keeping a strong control over costs.

“At this stage, we expect full year profits will be significantly ahead of last year.”