Kerry 2006 profit up 1%

Kerry Group has reported trading profit of €384m for 2006, up 1% on 2005, in its preliminary results.

The ISEQ-listed company said profit growth was slowed by increased energy costs.

Group sales revenue in 2006 increased by 4.9% to €4.65bn, an increase of 3.6% year-on-year.

Chief executive Hugh Friel said: “While 2006 was a challenging year for the group, I am pleased by the improved trading performance in the second half, benefiting from successful innovation and on-going business restructuring and cost-saving programmes.”