The consolidated pre-tax profits of Hellenic Bottling Company (Tria Epsilon) for the first half of 2000, after minority interests, amount to GRD 23.6 billion, 18.1% higher than 1999. These results have been charged with GRD 1.7 billion amortization and once off extraordinary expenses relating to the acquisition of CCB. The capital gain from the disposal of Frigoglass shares amounting to GRD 6.2 billion is also included in the above results. Excluding both items the results would amount to GRD 19.1 billion, 4.2% lower than 1999.The consolidated EBITDA of the company amounts to GRD 38.1 billion, at last year's level. Total sales volume was 3% lower while revenues increased 10.6% as a result of price adjustments and currency fluctuations. These results show an improving trend versus the first quarter of the year.Pro · Forma first half results for the combined entity, HBC and CCB, will be reported under IAS in Euros by the end of September.