PZ Cussons plc reported unaudited consolidated earnings results for the six months ended November 30, 2012. For the period, the company's revenue was £414.8 million against £414.0 million a year ago. Operating profit was £41.8 million against £39.2 million a year ago. Profit before taxation was £40.6 million against £39.3 million a year ago. Profit for the period was £29.8 million against £28.4 million a year ago. Profit attributable to equity holders of the company was £27.5 million or 6.40 pence diluted per share against £27.1 million or 6.27 pence diluted per share a year ago. Adjusted profit was 7.00 pence diluted per share against 6.48 pence diluted per share a year ago. Net cash inflow from operating activities was £8.9 million against net cash outflow from operating activities of £10.0 million a year ago. Purchase of property, plant and equipment was £12.0 million against £7.7 million a year ago.

The Board of the company has declared an interim dividend of 2.35 pence per share compared to 2.23 pence per share paid a year ago, an increase of 5.4%. The interim dividend will be paid on April 8, 2013 to shareholders on the register at the close of business on February 22, 2013.