Preliminary results for year ended 31 December 2006

26 Feb 2007

Bunzl plc, the international distribution and outsourcing Group, today announces its annual results for the year ended 31 December 2006. The results were:

• Revenue up 14% to £3,333.2 million
• Operating profit before intangible amortisation up 11% to £226.3 million
• Profit before tax and intangible amortisation up 9% to £209.6 million
• Profit before tax up 7% to £189.7 million
• Earnings per share† up 7% to 37.8p
• Adjusted earnings per share†* up 8% to 41.7p
• Dividend for the year up 8% to 17.0p
• Return on average operating capital 61.7%

Acquisition highlights of the year include:

• £390 million of annualised revenue added
• Entry into North American safety products redistribution
• Addition of major UK distributor in healthcare disposables
• Significant international expansion in non-food retail

Commenting on today's results, Anthony Habgood, Chairman of Bunzl, said:

"Bunzl has produced another good set of results as we have once again demonstrated growth through continually redefining and deepening our commitment to customers, consolidating the markets in which we compete and expanding our geographic coverage."

Michael Roney, Chief Executive of Bunzl, said:

"I am pleased to report a strong 2006 operating performance, organic revenue growth of 5% and higher acquisition spend of £162 million. This gives us a platform and momentum for our international growth which will be supported by continued focus on operational improvements and increased international sourcing."

Download the full Preliminary Results for Year Ended 31 December 2006 (PDF 196KB).

Note:
A webcast of today's presentation to analysts will be available on www.bunzl.com by 2.00pm today.

Enquiries:

† From continuing operations
* Before the effect of intangible amortisation