The second largest mineral water company on the Czech market, Podebradka, said gross profit had more than doubled from CKr43.2m to CKr90m in 2002. The company also reported sales of CKr852.6m for 2002, up by 20% from 2001.

The company said the profit increase could be attributed to labour productivity and cost savings in imported raw materials resulting from the strength of the Czech crown. Heightened advertising activity had established a stronger position on the market leading to growth in sales and output, the company said.

The company said it is aiming to increase sales by 15% in 2003.