Barry Callebaut Revenue Beats Estimates as Volumes Increase.

Barry Callebaut, a Swiss chocolate maker, has reported that its revenue in the fiscal first half exceeded analyst estimates due to an increase in volumes. Despite a challenging operating environment with rising costs, sales rose 11% to 4.6 billion Swiss francs. Barry Callebaut has managed to handle the increase in cocoa prices and inflation through its cost-plus pricing model. The company has maintained its guidance for flat volumes this fiscal year, but the recent rally in cocoa prices may impact its longer-term plans. Barry Callebaut's shares have declined in the past year, but investor Artisan Partners Asset Management Inc. has increased its stake, expressing confidence in the company's future prospects. [Extracted from the article]