Pre-tax profit is up, with sales of key licensed toy ranges such as Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, LankyBox and Aphmau remaining strong despite economic headwinds.

In a statement issued today, The Character Group Board is pleased to report an increase in pre-tax profit to £2.1m from £0.5m. The increase in profit is despite the turnover remaining constant at £57.6m.

These results show that in spite of the continuing economic challenges, Character’s products sold well, especially during the important Christmas period, with key licensed properties Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, LankyBox, Moriah Elizabeth and Aphmau being the stars together with strong domestic and international sales across brands such as ChillFactor and Heroes of Goo Jit Zu.

As a result of the strong half year figures, Character is maintaining its interim dividend at 8p, and continues its share buy-back programme.

Acknowledging the efforts of the Group’s personnel, the Board commented: “The Board very much appreciates the unwavering commitment and dedication from its personnel around the globe and is looking forward to another successful year together launching its new products, especially its new collectibles Terror Fried and Smooshzees.”