Vanish-to-Harpic firm Reckitt Benckiser, which employs about 75 people at its Groundwell Estate distribution centre in Swindon, said it expected to exceed its financial targets, as it reported strong third quarter results.

The Anglo-Dutch group said the quarter to September 30 had been strong in the face of more challenging market conditions and world events.

Operating profits rose 16 per cent to £116 million while revenues were up seven per cent at £843 million.

However, pre-tax profits fell 15 per cent to £106 million, which included a £40 million profit made last year on the sale of a number of businesses following the merger between Benckiser and Reckitt & Colman, which created the company.

Reckitt chief executive Bart Becht said: "Based on current trading we now expect to somewhat exceed the higher targets we set at the time of the half year results."

The targets had been for six per cent net revenue growth and 18 per cent net income (profit after tax) growth.

Mr Becht said: "Exceeding these targets will make 2001 an excellent year for Reckitt Benckiser, giving us confidence as we look forward."

During the third quarter, the group said home care revenues, which includes Haze air care, jumped 39 per cent, while fabric care, which includes Vanish stain remover, rose eight per cent.

Revenues from dishwashing products, including Calgonit 3-in-1, rose 19 per cent, while its health and personal care division saw revenues grow 12 per cent.