Diageo plc reported unaudited consolidated earnings results for the six months ended December 31, 2012. For the period, the company reported profit attributable to the equity shareholders of the parent company of £1,538 million or 61.1 pence per diluted share on net sales of £6,039 million compared to profit attributable to the equity shareholders of the parent company of £953 million or 38.1 pence per diluted share on net sales of £5,757 million a year ago. Operating profit was £2,045 million compared to £1,842 million a year ago. Profit before taxation was £1,961 million compared to £1,860 million a year ago. Profit was £1,601 million compared to £1,019 million a year ago. Net cash from operating activities was £999 million compared to £794 million a year ago. Purchase of property, plant and equipment and computer software was £271 million compared to £219 million a year ago. Sales were £8,235 million compared to £7,825 million a year ago. Free cash flow was £708 million compared to £580 million a year ago. Operating profit before exceptional items was £2,029 million compared to £1,842 million a year ago. Acquisitions increased reported operating profit by £40 million. Acquisitions increased reported sales by £213 million and reported net sales by £134 million.

The company also announced a interim dividend of 18.10 pence per share will be paid to holders of ordinary shares and ADRs on the register on 1 March 2013. This represents an increase of 9% on last year's interim dividend. The interim dividend will be paid to shareholders on 8 April 2013. Payment to US ADR holders will be made on 12 April 2013.