Rentokil said profits jumped 5.4% across the full year, thanks to huge growth in its hygiene business amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Operating profit rose to £383.8 million, up from £365.5m the year before. Turnover also increased 5% to £2.8 billion.
Rentokil said the turnover from its hygiene division rose 36% across the year, offsetting declines from temporary business closures.
During the height of the first lockdown, the company reported a 62% hike in the division’s turnover during the second quarter.
Rentokil, which acquired 23 firms over the year, said it has set aside another £400m to spend on further purchases over the coming year.
Andy Ransom, Rentokil’s chief executive, said: “In an extraordinary year, we have demonstrated the inherent strength of our business, growing turnover, profit and cash.
“We have shown great agility by launching new disinfection services in 60 countries to address a critical need for customers, accelerated the international expansion of our Hygiene business and have acquired 23 high quality businesses to build density, particularly in our key North America pest control market.
“2021 will be a year of transition as we cross the bridge from the worst of the crisis in 2020 to, hopefully, a post-pandemic 2022.”