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The Jerez-based Family Wines obtains more than 66% of its turnover outside Spain: this amounted to 250 million euros for the year 2014.
González Byass achieved in 2014 –the company closes its fiscal year in August– a growth in volume of 5%, which accounts for gross revenues of 249.6 million euros. That year net sales totalled 207.7 million, a figure that consolidates the growth experienced in recent years.
Likewise, net profit has increased to 15.8 million euros (a 63% growth over the previous year) thanks to the success of the González Byass wines and spirits abroad, the consolidation of the domestic market ant the contribution of financial income. Overseas sales account for 66% of the business, compared to 53% two years ago.
As regards EBITDA, the company obtained a record figure for the second year in a row, reaching 23.4 million euros. Remarkably, the company experienced a substantial improvement in its debt-EBITDA ratio over the last years: from 6.2 at year-end 2010 to 0.9 in 2014.
One of the great achievements of González Byass in recent years has been the consolidation of its global distribution, which has led the company to be present in 105 countries. González Byass has now its own networks in Spain, the UK, Mexico and the United States. The objective of reaching a closer contact with the markets has resulted in the creation of some sales forces of its own, who give support to dealers located in China, Germany, Brazil and Canada.
Furthermore, the strategic alliance with Grupo Emperador Distillers for the making of brandy was also strengthened during the fiscal year 2014. Finca Daramezas, a vineyard specialised in the production of grapes for distillation in the province of Toledo, is the fruit of this joint venture. With an area of 250 hectares, it can be considered one of the most advanced vineyards in the world as far as technology is concerned.
Another major commitment by González Byass is the development of high-end spirits, including brands like gin The London Nº1, vodka Druide and brandy Solera Gran Reserva Lepanto. Mom –a soft and provocative English gin– and Nomad Outland Whisky –an extraordinary blended whiskey, aged first in Scotland and later in Jerez– have joined this range during 2014.
Recently, González Byass has launched its new 100% Verdejo wine: Beronia Rueda. This commitment by the company in the Castile and León will materialise in an investment for the purchase of vineyards and the construction of a winery. This way, González Byass is now present in eight of the most representative geographical indications of the Spanish wine map: Jerez, Rioja, Somontano, Penedés, Cava, Rueda, Tierra de Castilla and Tierra de Cádiz.
Sustainability –which continues to remain a priority in the company’s strategy– still has great relevance for González Byass. The "5+5 Cuidando el Planeta" project will invest 2.5 million euros in policies that respect the environment, reduce pollution and preserve natural spaces.
González Byass is currently considered the first Spanish winery and sixth in the world, according to the "100 Best Wineries 2014" ranking, published by the WAWWJ (World Association of Wine Writers and Journalists).