Diageo, the world's biggest distiller by revenues, surpassed its own medium-term growth targets in the first half – despite selling not a drop more alcohol in the key US and European markets. The maker of Johnnie Walker whisky and Smirnoff vodka overset flat volume growth in these markets by increasing the proportion of pricier drinks sold, leading to a year-on-year 5 per cent increase in net sales in North America. (Financial Times)
