Profits surge at utility giant ahead of water charge hikes

United Utilities' profits have risen significantly ahead of it being allowed to charge more for water bills

- GUY TAYLOR

UNITED Utilities, the FTSE 100 giant, has reported a significant surge in profit ahead of increasing water bills for more than seven million customers.

The firm, based in Warrington and serving customers in the north-west of England, has also proposed a hike to its final dividend by 4.2% to 34.6p.

For the 12 months ending March 31, 2025, the company posted a pre-tax profit of £355 million - a substantial increase from the £170m reported for the previous 12 months.

Underlying operating profit also saw a rise of 22.4 per cent to £634m.

According to new figures submitted to the London Stock Exchange, the company’s revenue grew by 10% to £2.1 billion.