PURE.L Share News (PURE)

PureCircle, the world's largest producer of stevia ingredients, said it expects first half sales to be 31 per cent ahead of last year's performance at 34.7m dollars.In a trading update the group reported sales growth across all high purity ingredients, driven by innovations in the Stevia 3.0 TM portfolio of all-natural, no-calorie sweeteners and flavours.Total volumes of high purity stevia sweeteners and natural flavours are tipped to increase by 34% against a year ago.The increase in sales is anticipated to boost operating profit and earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA).The group ended the first half with net debt of $86m and cash and facility headroom of $58m, providing it sufficient funds for expansion plans."Our strategy of introducing new and innovative ingredients and solutions to meet identified market needs is continuing to win business for PureCircle and to increase the overall market share for high purity stevia," said Chief Executive Officer Magomet Malsagov. "The success of our innovations is underpinned by our R&D capabilities, uniquely integrated supply chain, global customer service infrastructure and smart partnerships."Shares rose 5.31% to 645p at 12:52 on Monday.RD