The result, which was up on $US251.9 million the prior corresponding period, included a profit on the sale of Brambles' (bil.ASX:Quote, News) Cleanaway UK waste management business of $US770.8 million.

Chief executive David Turner, who announced today he will retire from the post on June 30, said CHEP was expected to show strong growth in profit in the second half.

"CHEP Americas should have continuing solid growth in sales and another period of very strong profit growth,'' Mr Turner said.

Net profit from continuing operations was $US270.6 million, compared to $US180.1 million previously.

Mr Turner noted that in the past six months Brambles had simplified its business by uniting the company, which had been also listed on the London Stock Exchange, and divesting Cleanaway.

"Our efforts are now wholly focused on unlocking the significant potential of our two key businesses (CHEP and Recall) as well as achieving an optimal balance street structure,'' Mr Turner said.

He said new markets such as China and Turkey will contribute to the pallet supply business's long term growth.

CHEP sales rose eight per cent to $US1.56 billion ($1.99 billion) while profit grew by 21 per cent to $US385.2 million ($490.48 million).

Recall sales improved 17 per cent to $US308.1 million ($392.31 million)