LONDON, November 10 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Imperial Tobacco today announced strong Preliminary Results with operating profit for the enlarged group up 10 percent in the second half. Chief Executive Gareth Davis said the enhanced brand portfolio and the wider geographic footprint, allied with a focus on costs and sales, enabled the company to increase cigarette volumes by 10 percent.

Imperial also announced today that Mr Davis would be retiring in May 2010 and Chief Operating Officer Alison Cooper would be his successor.

In a video interview with online business broadcaster http://www.cantos.com, Mr Davis explains that the timing is right for his departure, leaving the business in great shape in the hands of a first class leader.

Also available, live analyst webcast of the group's full-year results at 0900GMT with on-demand available later today.

It's free to view. All you need to do is register at http://www.cantos.com. Cantos.com, the online financial broadcaster, features in-depth interviews, documentaries and webcasts with senior company executives. If you would like to contact us, please email enquiries@cantos.com or phone +44-207-936-1333.

SOURCE Imperial Tobacco Group PLC

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