The Group's full-year adjusted operating profit1 for 2018 from continuing operations is expected to be c£234m, c15% down on 2017. This is in line with guidance, which was for 2018 operating profit to be in the range of £225m-£245m. Underlying operating profit increased c4% year on year, excluding the impact of enhanced customer due diligence measures in Online and US Expansion costs.
During the year Online delivered a good underlying performance. There was excellent growth in the US Existing business and the Group invested in rapid expansion as US states regulated sports betting, and we are now live in seven states. Overall the US business broadly broke even in 2018 after allowing for significant expansion costs. As anticipated, Retail profits reduced year-on-year, challenged by wider high street conditions.
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