Dividend up again

PZ Cussons is marking its 44th year of dividend growth as it targets the next generation.

The Imperial Leather, Carex and Original Source owner is recommending a final dividend of 5.61p per share, making a total of 8.28p for the year, a 2.1pc increase on last year.

Overall profits were steady at £103.5m, a 0.5pc increase on last year. Bosses said its new Being by Sanctuary line, targeting 1824- year- olds with 46 products, had helped drive strong performance in the UK.

Revenues from Europe rose 1.9pc to £280.9m, with profits up 0.6pc to £62.1m.