THE company which owns the Albert Bartlett potato brand has increased its profits by more than 31 per cent in spite of small fall in turnover.

According to accounts recently filed at Companies House the privately owned Bartlett International Holdings, based in Airdrie, saw pre-tax profits rise from £8.7 million to £11.45m in the 12 months to May 31, 2014.

That came even though turnover dipped from £175.3m to £174.5m.

Writing in the accounts Ronnie Bartlett, the sole director named in the financial document, said: "We found the trading performance of the group to be satisfactory in the year, the early part of which was affected by extremely high raw material prices as a result of the shortage of UK potato supply following the poor harvest conditions experienced in 2013.

"Whilst raw material prices have fallen since this high, the UK retail market continues to be extremely competitive and these pressures are felt throughout the supply chain."

The company said that it had continued to develop the Albert Bartlett brand along with its ambassadors the chefs Albert Roux Jr and Andrew Fairlie. Over the years, the firm's television advertising has featured Desperate Housewives actress Marcia Cross and actor Jesse Metcalfe, who starred in the new series of Dallas.

Mr Bartlett said: "Alongside our branded business we remain fully committed to the development and success of our exclusive premium varieties and our own label offering."

The Scotty Brand business, which distributes Scottish grown vegetables including carrots as well as soft fruits, was said to have grown 40 per cent in the year.

Mr Bartlett said: "It continues to expand its product range whilst remaining true to its core values of providing the consumer with a high quality, fresh Scottish product."

The company more than halved its net debt from £30.8m to £14.3m.

The accounts show international sales rose from £385,688 to almost £3.5m as a result of growth in the US and Middle East.

Mr Bartlett said: "Albert Bartlett products can now be found in eight retail chains throughout the US, an expansion which has become possible as we add new listings alongside Walmart following the expiry of their initial period of exclusivity.

"Whilst the US remains our largest international presence we have increased our exposure in the Middle East with the establishment of a joint venture in Abu Dhabi and continue the expansion of our business activity in France and mainland Europe."

The accounts show staff costs rose from £19.3m to £22.1m even though average employee numbers fell from 877 to 853.

Directors' remuneration was down slightly from £994,429 to £977,270.

There was a £2.4m dividend paid during the year, down from £3.6m.