Imperial Tobacco Reports Higher Full-Year Profit

Imperial Tobacco Group PLC

reported a gain in its full-year profit. Imperial Tobacco's profit for the year surged to GBP1.42 billion ($2.27 billion), versus a year-ago profit of GBP905 million. On a per share basis, the company's earnings gained to 148.1 pence versus 92.7 pence. Its adjusted EPS fell to 202.8 pence from 210.1 pence. Its revenue fell 5.8% to GBP26.63 billion. Total cigarette volumes shrank 7% to 294 billion sticks. The company's board proposed a final dividend of 89.3 pence a share, compared to 81.2 pence last year. Alison Cooper, Chief Executive said, “Trading conditions remain tough in many territories but the actions we've taken to enhance the quality and sustainability of the business have put us in a stronger position to drive growth and create sustainable value for our shareholders." Imperial Tobacco shares dropped 2.15% to close at $85.25 yesterday.