Bunzl plc. (BNZL.L), a distribution and outsourcing group, reported that Profit attributable to the company's equity holders for the fiscal 2012 rose to 195.3 million pounds from 123.8 million pounds in the prior year. The increase in profit was primarily due to the non-recurrence of the 56.0 million pounds loss on disposal of vending in 2011 and the 6% increase in profit before income tax, intangible amortisation, acquisition related costs and disposal of business.
Earnings per share for the year increased to 59.5 pence from 38.0 pence in the previous year.
Adjusted earnings per share, Before intangible amortisation, acquisition related costs and disposal of business, for the year was 71.8 pence up from 68.5 pence last year.
Profit before income tax for the year increased to 269.3 million pounds from 193.7 million pounds last year.
Annual revenue increased to 5.359 billion pounds from 5.109 billion pounds last year. Revenue increased 6% (5% at actual exchange rates) to 5.359 billion pounds and operating profit was 352.4 million pounds, an increase of 7% (5% at actual exchange rates). The percentage growth in operating profit at constant exchange rates was greater than that of revenue due to the improvement in Group operating margin by 10 basis points to 6.6% as a result of the impact of acquisitions and the sale of the UK vending business in August 2011.
The company said that its Board recommended a final dividend of 19.4 pence. This brings the total dividend for the year to 28.2 pence, up 7% compared to 2011.
In North America, the company expects to see stronger growth as a result of the six acquisitions completed last year and an improvement in organic revenue growth from the levels seen in the second half of 2012. In spite of the difficult market conditions in Continental Europe, the company said it currently anticipate some growth with a stable operating margin.
The performance of UK & Ireland should continue to improve, in spite of the sluggish economies, led by organic growth and ongoing cost reduction initiatives. Rest of the World should see a strong performance through a combination of good organic growth and the impact of the recent significant acquisition activity, the company said.
For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com
Business News
June 05, 2026 16:18 ET A busy week for economic news flow saw a slew of reports being released that reflected the trends in the U.S. labor market. In Europe, economic growth and inflation data gained attention as the European Central Bank and Bank of England head for policy session later in the month. In Asia, the monetary policy session of the Indian central bank was in focus as the country, a major oil importer, reels under the pressures of a weaker rupee and rising inflation.