Group earnings per share rise 12 per cent in full year at Elementis

Group earnings per share increased by 12 per cent in the year ending December 31st at specialty chemicals company Elementis.

In its preliminary results, issued on Tuesday, the company reported that its operating margin had improved to 19% compared to 18% in 2011.

Constant currency sales were up 4.0%, the final ordinary dividend increased by 14% and the total ordinary dividend rose 11%.

Pre-tax profit rose 5.0% to $141.2m compared to $134.5m.

CEO: Highest earnings per share achieved in company's historyCommenting on the results, Group Chief Executive, David Dutro said: "It is my pleasure to report another excellent year for Elementis, as 2012 marked a new level of achievement for the group. Collectively our businesses delivered the highest earnings per share in our company's history.

"This strong performance was achieved in the face of a global economy and market environment that grew more uncertain as the year progressed. Importantly, these results further validate the resilience and inherent quality of our businesses.

MF