The Jurys Doyle hotel group is searching for acquisitions, particularly in the British market, and may look eventually to expand its presence in the US, according to managing director, Mr Peter Malone.

The company yesterday announced an 18 per cent rise in pre-tax profit to £23.2 million (€29.46 million) for Jurys in the 12 months to the end of April. Mr Malone said the integration of the State's two biggest hotel groups was progressing well and the group was on track to deliver another strong performance this year.

"This is the last set of results for the old Jurys. It is a sad day but we must progress and move forward," he said.