Trinity Biotech, based in Co Wicklow and manufacturer of diagnostic products, has announced a 45 per cent increase in pre-tax profit to $1.6 million (€1.71 million) in the second quarter of 2000. Revenue grew by 14 per cent to $7.4 million and profit margins have improved. Earnings per share grew by just 9 per cent to 4.3 cents. This slower growth rate is attributed to the five million new shares issued in April. Profits for the six months grew by 50 per cent to $3.0 million. Revenue was 11 per cent up at $14.3 million.

The group also completed a fund raising of $13.4 million, part of which will be invested in direct sales operations in its key European markets. Chief executive officer, Mr Ronan O'Caoimh, said the group was well financed and "strongly positioned to pursue growth both organically and through acquisition".