Pilkington plc has reported strong improvement in profit before tax and exceptional items - £102m as reported, equivalent to £106m at constant exchange rates, up 36%, driven by: Underlying volume growth in both building and automotive divisions; strengthening of float glass prices worldwide; further marked improvement in group operating profits (£139m); group return on sales now 10.5% on track to reach 13-16% in 2003; bearings per share before exceptional items up 33% to 5.3p; dividend maintained at 1.75p. Chairman, Sir Nigel Rudd, commented: "The fundamental restructuring undertaken over the last three years is now starting to unleash the real profit potential of this business. Further significant improvements in profitability are anticipated over the coming years as the Group consolidates its leading cost position within the industry."
