The expanding Irish arm of UK pharmaceutical retail giant Boots last year increased its pre-tax profits by 12 per cent to €17.8 million.

According to returns lodged with the Companies Office, Boots Retail (Ireland) Ltd increased the size of its business by 3 per cent from €267.2 million to €275.7 million in the 12 months to the end of March 31st last. Boots Ireland operated 71 stores across the country and, according to the directors’ report attached to the accounts, “dispensing and retail revenue increased ahead of the market despite difficult trading conditions which continue to impact consumer spending”.

The company paid a dividend of €14.6 million last year.