PREMIER Foods moved into profit last year helped by a sharp rise in sales of its branded goods.

The company, which is famous for brands such as Branston Pickle, Batchelor's soups, Bisto and Hovis, saw branded sales rise 6.5% to £1.6bn.

Premier, which manufacturers its Quorn brand in North Yorkshire, said trading profit - operating profit before exceptional items - rose by 4.5% to £323m.

Overall sales rose 2.2% to £2.6bn during the 12 months to December. Pre-tax profit came in at £4......for the full story register now for free or login below...