Fruit distribution company Fyffes today reported pre-tax profits of €68.1 million for 2002, an increase of 8 per cent on 2001.
The overall performance of its core banana division was broadly similar to 2001. The group cut costs during the year - including the closure of another ripening centre in Britain.
Operating profit before goodwill for the year increased to €63.3m compared to €61.6 million in 2001.
Fyffes announced a final dividend of 3.9384 cent per share. This will result in a total dividend for the year of ?5.203 cent, an increase of 10 per cent on last year.
Fyffes chairman Mr Neil McCann, described the results as "highly satisfactory", given the uncertain market conditions.
