"The financial targets reached by Nestlé Malta within the Maltese market throughout 2006 were the targets that the company's management had actually set for 2008 and in this respect, we are extremely delighted to see how Nestlé Malta, thanks to a fantastic and committed team, is continuously striving to sustain this success," Manuel Andres, chief executive officer of Nestlé Italy, enthused during the official inauguration of Nestlé Malta's new premises in Attard.

The inauguration of the brand new premises that house offices and stores spread across 5,000m2, was attended by all the employees of Nestlé Malta and several executives from Nestlé Italy who accompanied Mr Andres to Malta to overview the local operations of Nestlé Malta. During their stay, the delegation from Nestlé Italy reviewed the financial results achieved last year by Nestlé Malta as well as gained further knowledge on the company's daily operations and its distribution network.

Addressing the employees, Mr Andres praised Nestlé Malta for the outstanding local results throughout 2006 that reflect Nestlé's global financial success.

"We were delighted to see how this company and its employees are working hand in hand to ensure the growth of Nestlé Malta within its various areas of operations. It is impressive to note how in 2006, the company, notwithstanding such a competitive market, managed to increase its turnover by seven per cent over the results achieved the previous year."

The employees were also addressed by Giorgio Mondovì, managing director of Nestlé Malta, who also had words of praise for all the employees for their dedication, passion and hard work.

"These attributes are the ones that have led to Nestlé Malta's success throughout 2006 and that will hopefully lead to an even more successful 2007," he said.

"Indeed, we still see a lot of potential for growth in Malta through a number of different channels. Nestlé is more than just the largest food and beverage company in the world. Increasingly, Nestlé is becoming the world's leader in nutrition, health and wellness, accompanying consumers with its products step by step through all the stages of life. By capitalising on this unique position and being more efficient in our operations, we can increase the sales for all our brands and thus enhance our competitive edge," concluded Mr Mondovì.