Sales of prize bonds up in 2005

Gross sales of prize bonds in 2005 exceeded €133m, an increase of 5.7% on 2004 figures, according to the Prize Bond Company’s annual report released today.

The total invested in prize bonds at the end of 2005 was €561.5m, an increase of almost 11% on the previous year.

130,000 prizes were paid to customers in 2005 with an aggregate value of €12.7m, an increase in value on 2004 of 12.7%.

Internet sales reached €6m, a increase of 58% on the previous year.

“The financial results exceeded our expectations for the year,” said Prize bond chairman Michael O’Keeffe.

“As a secure, state-guaranteed investment, Prize Bonds remains an attractive savings option for small and large investors and is also an ideal gift product.”