Four Seas profits up

Four Seas Mercantile Holdings, the food distribution and manufacturing company, reported a 13.3 per cent rise in pre-tax profit to $54.75 million for the year to March 31, 1996.

Turnover rose 21 per cent to $78.21 million despite a worsening of the climate in its core domestic market.

Sales of the Four Seasons brand of sea weed and chewing gum rose to make them the best-selling brands in Hong Kong, the company reported. Directors recommend a final dividend of 7.2 cents per share.