C&C Group PLC Reports First‑Half Sales Decline as CFO Andrew Andrea Departs for Domino’s Pizza

London, 18 September 2025 – C&C Group PLC, the Irish‑based producer of ciders, beers and other alcoholic beverages, announced a downturn in its first‑half (H1) sales and the forthcoming exit of its Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Andrew Andrea. The company’s management has said that the decline is temporary and that it remains on track to meet its underlying operating profit targets for the year.

H1 Performance

  • Sales decline: The company disclosed that sales during the first half of the year fell relative to the same period in 2024, reflecting a softer market for alcoholic drinks and increased competition in the consumer staples sector.
  • Operating profit: Despite the sales dip, C&C Group projects an underlying operating profit of EUR 41.5 million – EUR 42 million, in line with its earlier outlook. This figure is a key metric for investors and analysts monitoring the company’s profitability.
  • Market context: The company’s share price closed at £163.6 on 16 September, a figure that sits comfortably between the 52‑week low of £115.2 (6 April) and the 52‑week high of £184.586 (27 July). The price‑to‑earnings ratio stands at 54.24, indicating a valuation that reflects the market’s view on future growth prospects.

CFO Departure

  • Andrew Andrea’s exit: Andrew Andrea, who has served as both CFO and Chief Transformation Officer, has informed the board that he will step down to take up the role of CFO at Domino’s Pizza Group PLC. His departure will take effect on 16 March 2026, when he will assume the position at the pizza‑delivery chain.
  • Impact on leadership: The announcement underscores a significant shift in C&C Group’s executive team. While the company has not yet named an interim CFO, it has reiterated its commitment to maintaining the guidance for operating profit and to executing its transformation plan.
  • Domino’s Pizza Group’s new CFO: Domino’s Pizza Group, which is listed on the London Stock Exchange under the ticker DOM.L (also trading as DPZ), confirmed the appointment of Andrea. His experience at C&C Group and a 22‑year tenure at Marston’s Plc are seen as assets that will support Domino’s financial strategy and growth ambitions.

Market Reactions and Outlook

  • FTSE 250 context: The news came amid a day of mixed activity on the FTSE 250. While some names like Jupiter Fund Management saw gains following an upgrade, the overall market moved modestly higher, buoyed by the Bank of England’s decision to keep interest rates unchanged.
  • Investor sentiment: Analysts view the CFO change as a normal executive turnover rather than a signal of deeper distress. The company’s guidance for underlying operating profit remains unchanged, suggesting that management believes the sales decline is a short‑term issue linked to market conditions rather than structural problems.
  • Strategic focus: C&C Group’s long‑term strategy continues to emphasize brand strength in its core cider and beer offerings, while exploring new product lines and markets. The company’s website (www.candcgroupplc.com ) outlines ongoing initiatives in sustainability and digitalisation, which are expected to play a role in future profitability.

Conclusion

C&C Group PLC’s disclosure of a first‑half sales decline coupled with the announcement of CFO Andrew Andrea’s move to Domino’s Pizza Group highlights the dynamic nature of the consumer staples industry. While the immediate sales dip may raise concerns, the company’s maintained operating profit outlook and strategic priorities suggest that it remains focused on long‑term growth and value creation for shareholders. Investors and market participants will likely monitor the transition period closely to assess how the new leadership structure impacts C&C Group’s financial performance and market position.