Consumer products and services industry group AVI reported solid interim results on Wednesday, following its restructuring and unbundling of glass unit Consol, and despite a lower contribution from its fishing company I&J.

Turnover for the half year to December 2004 rose by seven percent to R2.5-billion.

Group diluted headline earnings per share were 19 percent better on the previous comparable period at 108 cents per share.

The company realised a 22 percent increase in operating profit from continuing operations to R239-million in the period under review.

The group announced a special distribution of 64 cents per share to shareholders, which is inclusive of an interim dividend of 31 cents per share.

Angus Band, group managing director commented: “Following the unbundling of Consol Limited and the sale of Vector Logistics, we have successfully restructured the group to focus on branded consumer products.”

I-Net Bridge

SA COMPANIES & BUSINESS INFO Trying to find your way around South Africa's corporate landscape? Looking for a info on a particular company or sector? After the latest business, financial or market news? Here's a quick directory of links to get you started.

MORE BUSINESS NEWS Beige hit by strong rand Allan Gray to sell 25% to BEE partners Petrol price to hit all-time high Prism gets nod for R40m BEE deal DRDGold assets 'not for sale' Moneyweb buys back shares Corrupt companies to be blacklisted SABMiller growth on track Timber demand boosts Yorkcor Boardmans sale to boost Pick 'n Pay