Crown Royal, Tequila Drive Diageo US Performance

Dear Client: Diageo net sales were up 4.2% globally in the first half through December 31, with volumes up 0.2%. In North America, net sales were up 6% and volumes grew 3% in H1. "At a category level, rapid growth in tequila, Canadian whisky and Chinese white spirits balanced softer Scotch performance," said chief Ivan Menezes on this morning's earnings call. "These results, lapping last year's very strong first half, reflect the resilience of our strong and diversified geographic footprint and portfolio." BY