AVI Limited announced trading update for the six months ended December 31, 2017. Group revenue rose 2.3% with the impact of selling price increases taken during the prior financial year partially offset by declines in sales volumes in some key categories. The consolidated gross profit margin improved with the accumulated pressure on imported costs ameliorated by improved exchange rates compared to last year. Considering the demand environment, operating profit growth of 8.7% for the semester, coupled to an increase in operating profit margin, is pleasing.

The company provided earnings guidance for the six months ended 31 December 2017. Consolidated headline earnings per share for the six months ended 31 December 2017 are expected to increase by between 7% and 8% over the comparable period in the prior year, translating into an increase from last year's 302.9 cents to a range between 324 and 327 cents per share; and Consolidated earnings per share for the six months ended 31 December 2017, including capital gains and losses, are expected to increase by between 6% and 7% over the comparable period in the prior year, translating into an increase from last year's 305.4 cents to a range between 324 and 327 cents per share.