Givaudan, a leading fragrance and flavor company, reported strong business momentum in 2018 with 9.4% growth in sales and 5.6% like-for-like sales growth. Gross profit increased by 3.5% as a percentage of sales, while EBITDA rose by 5.2% and operating income increased by 1.7%. The company's balance sheet and cash flows also showed growth, with operating cash flow increasing by 6.4% and free cash flow by 18.4%. Givaudan's market capitalisation increased by 1.1% and the share price rose by 1.1%. The company had 21.7% more employees as of December 31, 2018, and the lost time injury rate decreased by 24.2%. The company paid a cash dividend of 260 CHF per share.
