UK bookmaker William Hill has reported solid increases in profits and revenue for last year, helped by strong growth in online betting and gaming machines.
William Hill said operating profits grew by 7% from 2009 to £276.8m. Pre-tax profits jumped by 60% to £193.3m, as the 2009 figures were affected by once-off charges.
Total net revenue was up 7% to just over £1 billion. Online revenue jumped 24%, while revenue from betting shops rose by a more modest 3%. Online betting profits were up 22% to £91m.
William Hill said its sports betting business was helped by favourable results at the football World Cup last year.
In December, William Hill said it was planning to close 20 of its Irish betting shops.
