DCS Europe increased its sales 7% last year after cracking the Iraqi market.

The wholesaler's exports were up 37% to £12.3m, pushing total sales to £125.6m.

It experienced strong growth in the Middle East with its personal care brand Enliven now market leader in Iraq, said MD Denys Shortt. Overall sales were up 14% for December, boosted by the pre-Christmas demand for cosmetic gift sets.

DCS Packaging division, meanwhile, repacked more than 14,000 floor displays, up from 3,000 in 2009.