The sales of finished products increased by 2.2% (2.5% at constant rates) driven by European markets such as Germany, Poland, UK and the eastern European countries, while Italy and France remained flat. Within the American countries, the USA, Canada and Mexico recorded the higher increase in net sales.
The products that contributed the most to the net sales of finished products were mainly Nutella, Ferrero Rocher, Kinder Surprise, Kinder Joy, Kinder Bueno and Tic Tac.
The Group's average workforce in 2016/2017 was 30,305, increasing from 29,206 employees in 2015/2016. The headcount as of August 31, 2017 amounted to 34,543 employees, compared to 32,990 as of August 31, 2016.
As of 31 August 2017, the headcount of Ferrero employees amounted to 34,543.
The Group continued also this year to invest in improving and expanding its factories, plants and equipment in line with its entrepreneurial and social commitments and in constant application of its corporate strategies. Key corporate strategies led to ongoing improvements in the quality and competitiveness of the products portfolio, while paying close attention to product freshness, food safety and the environment, which the Ferrero Group is highly committed to.
During fiscal year 2016/2017 the Group has also completed the acquisition of Fannie May Confections Brands, Inc. and the Harry London chocolate brands from 1-800-FLOWERS.com, Inc. The union between Ferrero and Fannie May represents an important strategic and cultural fit, based on long family histories and high-quality brands.