Liquor major Radico Khaitan has posted a 252 per cent rise in its net profit to Rs 15.7 crore for the fourth quarter ended March 31, 2013, as compared to Rs 4.5 crore in the corresponding period a year ago. Net sales increased 15 per cent to Rs 440 crore (Rs 382.5 crore). For the fiscal ended March 2013, net sales stood at Rs 1,716 crore (Rs 1,533.2 crore), up 11.9 per cent.

Net profit for the year increased 21.4 per cent to Rs 77.3 crore (Rs 63.7 crore). The company has announced a dividend of 40 per cent or Rs. 0.80 per share.

Lalit Khaitan, the company’s Chairman and Managing Director, said: “Our financial performance was underpinned by the strong growth of our premium brands and increasing market penetration. The industry landscape is evolving rapidly with profitability driven growth being a priority. Management has been ahead of the curve with our premiumisation strategy over the years and are well positioned looking forward. ”

Radico shares closed Rs 127.15 apiece on BSE, down 2.08 per cent against the opening trade.