Revenue for the year ended 31 December 2011 increased by 16% to R13.4 billion (2010: R11.6 billion). Profit from operations surged by 24% to R1.3 billion (2010: R1.1 billion), while profit for the year attributable to ordinary shareholders rose to R777 million (2010: R600 million). Furthermore, headline earnings per share jumped by 25% to 720cps (2010: 577cps).

Cash dividend declaration
Notice was given that on Monday, 20 February 2012 the directors of AECI declared a final cash dividend of 179cps in respect of the financial year ended 31 December 2011.

Outlook and strategic focus
The restructuring of the group over the past two years has repositioned its cost base. While manufacturing and mining production appear to be recovering, recent volatility suggests that the recovery remains fragile. However, AECI is confident in its ability to respond appropriately. Management's focus for 2012 will be on:
* completing the ISAP ramp-up and continuing AEL's expansion in markets beyond South Africa, particularly the rest of Africa, Asia Pacific and South America;
* actively pursuing opportunities for the expansion of the specialty chemicals cluster into other geographies; and
* continuing to pursue the realisation of value from the property portfolio, with current or new business models.







2012-02-21 08:33:01