According to its annual report, BBC Worldwide enjoyed a 1% rise in profits over last year’s total and a 3% rise in overall sales.

In the fiscal year, which ended on March 31 2013, the company reported a  US$235 million in profit. The previous fiscal year profit was reported at US$233 million.

BBC Worldwide’s 34 branded international channels drove revenues, through launching new operations, widening distribution and increasing advertising sales. Program sales and distribution passed the US$452 million revenue mark for the first time.

The report states that BBC Worldwide invested US$265 million  in content throughout the fiscal year. Investment in distribution rights was US$157 million, of which US$111 million was into BBC commissions.

Top-selling programs this year included Africa (sold to 195 territories), Top Gear USA (sold to 174 territories), Ripper Street and Parade’s End (each to sold into 120 territories).