Aristocrat’s Aussie profits “almost trebled”

By James Atkinson

Aristocrat Leisure has attributed its outstanding performance last financial year to the strength of its Australian and New Zealand divisions.

Aristocrat achieved normalised net profit after tax of $66.1 million over the full year to 31 December 2011, representing growth of more than 21 per cent compared to the prior corresponding period (PCP), or 34 per cent on a constant currency basis.

This was significantly ahead of the previously adjusted guidance range of 10 per cent to 20 per cent profit growth for the full year.

CEO Jamie Odell told TheShout Australia and New Zealand were at the forefront of the Group results. Australian revenues were up 27 per cent, with profits almost trebling, while New Zealand revenue was up 43 per cent, with the division's profits almost quadrupling.

"Over the period, we have maintained our strategic focus on revolutionising the quality and competitiveness of our global product portfolio, positioning Aristocrat to deliver stronger operational performance and top line growth in our key markets and segments," he said.

"At the same time, we've done important work in driving efficiency, improving culture and ramping up our skills and capability in critical areas."

Odell said in a statement that Aristocrat expects strong growth in normalised full year net profit after tax in 2012 with operational performance well ahead of the prior year.

"Our eyes are now focused on 2012, where we'll continue to focus on delivering for our customers, strengthening our games portfolio and game performance," he told TheShout.