Manchester consumer products company PZ Cussons plc — maker of Carex, Imperial Leather and Sanctuary Spa — said its revenue rose 5.45% to £541.4 million in the year to May 31, 2026.
Adjusted profit before taxation rose to £50.1 million from £41 million.
Dividend per share rose 2.8% to 3.70p.
Cussons reported a net debt reduction of £87 million to £25 million “driven primarily by proceeds from the sale of the PZ Wilmar joint venture.”
The firm said its gross debt has now reduced by £174.3 million over the last three years “aided by the sale of surplus assets and cash repatriation from Nigeria to the UK.”
PZ Cussons CEO Jonathan Myers said: “We delivered a strong trading performance in FY26, with revenue growth across each of our four lead markets and each of our top ten brands.
“Combined with structural cost savings and more favourable FX movements in Nigeria, this translated into adjusted operating profit growth of nearly 25%, excluding the contribution from the now sold PZ Wilmar joint venture.
“We also enjoyed good early success with our refreshed strategic approach for St.Tropez which returned to growth in its key market of North America.
“At the same time, we completed our strategic review and established a refreshed strategy with a clearer financial framework and capital allocation policy.
“We are now a more focused and resilient business, leveraging competitive advantages from our locally-loved brands, go-to-market capabilities and manufacturing scale, with a portfolio balanced across developed and emerging markets.
“Gross debt has reduced by £174m over the past three years, supported by growing cash flow generation and the proceeds from non-core asset sales. As a result, and reflecting our continued confidence in the Group’s prospects, the Board is proposing the resumption of dividend growth.
“The current year has started in line with expectations and we are pleased with the continued early signs of progress. While there is plenty more to do, and we are mindful of macro-economic uncertainties, we are well placed to continue delivering sustainable growth.”