Lees Foods has almost doubled its pre-tax profit for the six months to 30 June 2010, compared to the same period last year.

The firm saw sales up 9% to £9.6m, with a 43% increase in pre-tax profit to £562k, from £394k last year. Gross profit increased by 14% to £3.2m.

Chief executive Clive Miquel said the firm’s increased focus on production planning has helped achieve greater efficiences and cost savings, and added, “we are continuing to assess how we can improve production capabilities at both sites”.

“Sales have benefited from the general uplift within the major multiples in the food sector across the Lees’ product range and we have increased our market penetration in the area of foodservice,” explained Miquel, adding that increased promotional spend has been offset by higher sales.

“Items such as the new meringue depositor installed last year are now delivering benefits and represent a positive return on investment,” he added.

>>Lees plans for growth as profits rise