Kerry profits rise €30m in tough year

RISING energy costs, currency translation losses and a downturn in Kerry Group’s chilled and frozen foods division dented its 2005 performance.

Nevertheless the results were in line with market expectations, with pre-tax profits up at €298 million from €268.6m in 2004.

Earnings per share at 131.6c met expectations, while turnover for the year rose 7% to €4.4 billion. Operating profits rose 7% to €380m while the group trading margin overall was maintained at 8.6%.