Nichols saw first half sales decrease 17.3% to £59.2 million, and pre-tax profits fell to £2.9 million from £13.3 million.
It was hit by the Covid-19 lockdown, with cinemas, pubs and restaurants that sold Nichols products closed in March. They were allowed to reopen in England in July.
The company said first quarter sales were up 6.2% from a year earlier, but second quarter revenues were 35.2% down from the same period in 2019. Nichols did see at-home demand for Vimto rise in the UK in the first half.
John Nichols, non-executive chairman, said: “Although the immediate future remains uncertain, we are confident in Nichols' ability to emerge from this period well-placed to continue to deliver the group's long-term strategic plan.”
He added: “On behalf of the board I would like to thank Marnie for her significant contribution to the group over the last seven years and wish Andrew every success in leading the business during the next phase of its development. Marnie will now commence her handover to ensure a smooth transition."
