FirstGroup PLC (FGROY.PK, FGROF.PK, FGP.L) reported that its fiscal year profit before tax decreased to 37.2 million pounds from 279.9 million pounds last year. The Group recorded an overall charge of 135.2 million pounds for the quarter for exceptional items and amortisation charges.
Profit for the year from continuing operations was 47.8 million pounds or 7.2 pence per share, compared to 229.8 million pounds or 42.5 pence per share last year.
Underlying profit before tax was 172.4 million pounds compared to 271.4 million pounds last year. The Group said the decrease in underlying profit was due principally to lower underlying operating profits. Underlying profit per share from continuing operations was 26.7 pence compared to 39.8 pence last year.
Revenue from continuing operation increased to 6.90 billion pounds from 6.68 billion pounds last year.
FirstGroup said, in the short term the Board proposed that no final dividend will be paid in respect of the year to 31 March 2013, nor an interim dividend for the year to 31 March 2014. Payments will recommence with a final dividend for the year to 31 March 2014, subject to performance in line with expectations, as a transition to re-establishing a progressive dividend policy thereafter, the Group said.
The Board of FirstGroup plc announced a fully underwritten Rights Issue to raise gross proceeds of approximately 615 million pounds. FirstGroup also announced that Martin Gilbert has announced his intention to stand down as Chairman, once a successor has been appointed.
Martin Gilbert, Chairman, said: "the fund-raising will not only strengthen the Group and support its continued growth but also underpin the ability to remain a dividend paying stock as well as supporting our investment grade rating."
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