Primark owner Associated British Foods reported better-than-expected profit for the year on lower costs and lifted its dividend payout.The stock is among the top risers on the U.K. blue chip index FTSE 100,

Associated British Foods reported a 32% rise in full-year profit, with a robust performance from its grocery division and a solid outcome from its Primark clothing business partially offset by accelerating weakness in its sugar operations.

Associated British Foods Plc’s annual profit jumped and the company said momentum at its Primark clothing chain and food division is expected to continue this fiscal year, helped by easing input costs.

Shares of Associated British Foods (ABF) (LON: ABF) rose on Tuesday following its results, which beat expectations. At 5:07 am (1007 GMT), ABF was trading 4.1% hi

Associated British Foods said it was poised for further growth as it reported a 32% rise in full-year profit, driven by robust performances from its Primark clothing business and grocery division. In the year to Sept.