First half year highlights (reported currency):
Sales up 16.2% driven by continued organic growth across all Core Business sectors, together with positive currency translation
Margin performance maintained, with return on sales of 24.9%
Adjusted profit before tax up 14.3% at £169.7m, reflecting profit growth across the Core Business
Relentless focus on innovation, with sales of New and Protected Products (NPP) increasing to almost £200m
Continued cash generation supporting peak organic investment, and strong balance sheet. Free cash flow of over £40m, leverage ratio of 1.0x and 6.9% increase in interim dividend
Full year outlook affirmed.
