Hilton profits up 3% to pounds 127.5m

HILTON, the hotels and Ladbroke bookmaking group, yesterday reported a 3 per cent rise in half-year profits to pounds 127.5m, helped by a pounds 27m contribution from its recent acquisition of Stakis hotels. All the hotels will be rebranded under the Hilton name by this autumn, followed by a public launch next spring. The company said the disposal of its American gaming interests was under way. It also unveiled plans to expand its offshore betting operations.

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