GUS's international financial and data services division increased sales by 19% in the three months to December 31 2004, compared with the previous year.
Had sterling/dollar exchange rates remained constant over the period, sales would have increased by 24%.
GUS is in the process of a two-year strategic review in which it is looking at options such as demerging Experian. The review is due to conclude in May 2006.
The Financial Times has reported that Experian is widely expected to be sold next year for between 拢3bn and 拢4.5bn. It was the star performer within the group this quarter, in contrast to lacklustre performance at Burberry and Argos.
At Experian North America, growth in the marketing division was mid-single digit, compared with much stronger growth in its credit information division.
At the other part of the company, Experian International, the marketing, credit and outsourcing divisions each achieved similar sales growth similar to last year.
The biggest contribution to Experian International's 18% revenue growth came from additional sales from QAS, the address management software company acquired in October 2004.
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