Primark owner AB Foods aided by Diamond Jubilee baking bonanza "Primark is trading very well despite very variable weather conditions," said finance director John Bason, with sales rising 13pc in the quarter, continuing the momenturm from the first half. In the sugar business, year-to-date revenues rose 28pc. However, it has pulled out of Mali after government funding was hit by unrest in the country. It will take a £15m charge as a loss on the closure of the business which will be largely offset by profits from the disposal of ABF's Polish sugar operations. Mr Bason also expected a lift from the London Olympics. I'm a believer that Olympics will create economic activity for the UK economy. People will be looking to Primark in the capital. People will be eating food and we provide basic staples for food. I think the Olympics will be good for us." he said. Shares in AB Foods shares were up 0.2pc by midday at £12.69.