Heiton profits rise 29% to €18.7m

HEITON Group has posted a 29% rise in first-half profits, driven by the strength of the housing market and its DIY arm Atlantic Homecare.

Pre-tax profits for the six months to end October rose to €18.7 million from €14.3m. Group turnover for the half year was up by 4% to €255m, though the retail division, which includes Atlantic Homecare and the Panelling Centre, was ahead by 10%.

The profit figure was flattered by a €1.7m gain on the sale of a property in North Dublin.