QUALCERAM, the sanitary ware manufacturer, has announced a 23 per cent increase in pre-tax profit from £1.8 million (€2.29 million) in 1997 to £2.2 million (€2.79 million) in 1998. This is in line with the upward trend in the first half.

Further growth is anticipated. It has completed the development of its Dublin depot and the development of a new warehouse and distribution centre at Arklow will be completed by mid-1999, said chief executive, Mr John O'Loughlin. "We have now succeeded in substituting bought-in product with manufactured product. The next stage of development will see an increase in the range of manufactured bathroom furniture products," said chairman, Mr Sean Henneberry.

The distribution centres in Yorkshire and Lyon continued to contribute to growth.

The establishment of the joint tile venture, with the Eczacibasi group is progressing in line with the original timetable and tile production is scheduled to start during the third quarter of 1999.

While trading conditions in Britain continue to be competitive, the buoyant Irish economy should facilitate growth, according to Mr Henneberry. The group expects to increase its market share in Britain and that the development of the French market should "result in a contribution from this area for the first time".

The results show a 21 per cent rise in sales from £8.8 million (€11.17 million) to £10.6 million (€13.46 million). Earnings per share grew by a similar amount, 18 per cent, from 11.89p (15.10 cents) to 14p (17.78 cents). Shareholders are to receive a bigger payout. A final dividend of 2.2p 79 cents) per share has been declared, making a total of 3.3p (4.19 cents).