AUTOMOTIVE services group Inchcape has announced a 78% rise in pre-tax profits to £108.6 million, up from £61 million the previous year.

But the company said its leasing business had suffered a 'disappointing' year, prompting a restructuring at a cost of £1.6 million, which has included its integration with Inchcape Fleet Solutions. The company's EuroFleet refurbishment and logistics firm business increased its turnover by 10.9% in what was described as a difficult market.