Nestlé has reported its nine-month sales for 2021 with Purina PetCare continuing to be one of Nestlé’s top-performing segments.

Nestlé Purina PetCare reported 11.36 billion Swiss francs (AUD$16.59 billion) in sales for the first nine months of 2021, with real internal growth (RIG) up nearly 10 per cent from the same period in 2020.

It achieved the second-highest net sales numbers (behind coffee) and the highest real internal growth and organic growth rates (12.1 per cent) over this nine-month period.

Purina PetCare’s double-digit growth was led by science-based and premium brands Purina Pro Plan, Fancy Feast and Purina ONE, as well as veterinary products.

Nestlé’s overall organic growth reached 7.6 per cent, with RIG of six per cent and pricing of 1.6 per cent. Growth was supported by continued momentum in retail sales, steady recovery of out-of-home channels, increased pricing, and market share gains. Nestlé said it now expected full-year growth between six and seven per cent, up from its previous guidance of between five and six per cent.

François-Xavier Roger, Chief Financial Officer, Nestlé SA, said that PetCare continues to see strong growth globally.

“By product categories, the largest contributor to growth was Purina PetCare, with strong sales developments across all brands, markets and channels.

“Most segments and geographies grew at a double-digit rate with market share gains. Purina’s performance was driven by continued strong demand for premium products, supported by successful innovation and momentum across all channels.”