Dart Group PLC, board has decided to pay an increased interim dividend of 2.8 pence per share for the half year ended September 30, 2018. The dividend will be paid on 4 February 2019 to shareholders on the register at 28 December 2018.

The company reported unaudited consolidated earnings results for six months ended September 30, 2018. For the period, the company's revenue was £2,247.1 million against £1,652.5 million a year ago. Operating profit was £350.1 million against £208.6 million a year ago. Profit before taxation was £337.4 million against £216.2 million a year ago. Profit attributable to equity shareholders of the parent was £276.7 million against £177.2 million a year ago. Diluted earnings per share were 185.55 pence against 118.88 pence a year ago. Net cash from operating activities was £423.8 million against £257.2 million a year ago. Purchase of property, plant & equipment was £132.1 million against £90.4 million a year ago.

The taxation charge for the six months ended September 30, 2018 was £60.7 million reflects an estimated effective tax rate of approximately 18% for the year 2018.