Kerry Group revenues increased by 10% in the first nine months of the year, the company said on Wednesday. The increase was mainly driven by acquisitions (4.7%) and a volume growth of 3.1%. Prices in the first nine months were down 0.1%, compared to the same period last year.

Its consumer foods business saw volumes decline 0.7%, as a result of losing a major contract with Tesco earlier this year. This contract excluded, volumes were up marginally (0.6%). Pricing in the period was down 0.6% which the company says is reflective of market pricing.

It said the spreads category remained challenged and the chilled meals sub-category continued to be impacted by reduced promotional activity.

Edmond Scanlon, Kerry Group CEO said the group continues to make strategic acquisitions. Kerry have been a rumoured front runner in a deal to buy the ingredients division of chemical giant Dupont. The business is certainly of interest to Kerry – it brings strength in probiotics and plant-based solutions and is of a similar scale. But it may be at a steep price.