Dec 09, 2010. /Lesprom Network/. DS Smith Plc announces its results for the six months to 31 October 2010. Group revenue for the half-year to 31 October 2010 is up 15.3% to GBP 1,174.2 million including Otor, which is consolidated in these results for the two months of ownership. Excluding Otor, revenues are up 10.5%. This reflects strong volumes, 6.2% in the Packaging business, and price recovery of cost increases. Operating profit (before exceptional items and amortisation) is up 19.3% to GBP 60.5 million, and up 10.8% excluding Otor. The return on sales margin increased across the Group as a whole, up 20 basis points to 5.2%, reflecting the increased profits from the UK Packaging business. The return on sales margin in the Packaging business fell by 10 basis points to 6.8% due to the phased recovery of input costs, which are typically only recovered with a time lag of three to six months. Office Products Wholesaling margins were maintained at 1.4%, reflecting the continued outperformance of the business in continental Europe offset by more difficult conditions in the UK. Profit before tax, exceptional items and amortisation was GBP 48.7 million. Exceptional costs of GBP 6 million were incurred in the first half, predominantly related to the purchase of Otor. DS Smith Plc, the international supplier of recycled packaging for consumer goods and office products wholesaling business.