In the second quarter of 2010, sales grew 5% from favorable currency exchange rates and higher volume and product mix. For the consumer business, the company increased sales with expanded distribution and the launch of new products which were supported with a dedicated marketing campaign.

Earnings per share increased 29% to $0.49 from $0.38 in the second quarter of 2009. This $0.11 per share increase included $0.04 per share of restructuring charges recorded in the second quarter of 2009.

Net sales for the six month period was $906.2m compared to $855.7m in the previous year period. Operating income for the period was $148m compared to $139.1m in the same period last year.

Alan Wilson, chairman, president and CEO of McCormick, said: "McCormick has achieved excellent financial results through the first half of 2010. During this period, we have increased our marketing support 22% to introduce consumers to some great new products and to feature the convenience, value, health and great taste of our leading brands.

"We now expect CCI-led savings to exceed $40m in 2010. This level of performance demonstrates the effectiveness of our strategy and growth initiatives, particularly in an economic environment that remains challenging. As we look ahead to the second half of our fiscal year, we are well-positioned to deliver record results in 2010."

Based on the financial performance achieved in the first half of 2010, the company expects to achieve 2010 earnings per share at the upper end of its $2.49 to $2.54 target range. While sales are still expected to grow 2% to 4% in local currency, the impact of foreign currency exchange is expected to lower sales by 2% in the second half based on current rates.