Pest control is one of Rentokil's best-known businesses

In the past few months, Rentokil has seen its chairman and chief executive depart and issued a profit warning.

In recent weeks, speculation had risen that the firm was set to announce a break-up following a strategic review.

But as it unveiled profits of �180.4m ($325m) for the six months to 30 June it said it had no disposal plans.

"Rentokil does not suffer from the problem of a good core business being held back by under performing peripheral businesses," said executive chairman Brian McGowan.

"The key to future growth is not divestment potential - it is in getting the businesses working more effectively and more efficiently."

Analysts had been eagerly awaiting Rentokil's results, with speculation having grown that the firm could announce the sale of one of its units or even a complete break-up.

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Rentokil's parcels delivery unit and its facilities management unit - which operates cleaning, catering and business conferences - were both seen as businesses which could be sold.

But the firm's statement quashed any thoughts of sales, and even hinted that the firm could be looking to snap up more businesses.

"Acquisitions will now be on the agenda of every management meeting," Rentokil said, adding that its main focus would be on the hygiene and security sectors.

Troubled year

The firm added that headhunters were already "well into" the process of finding a new chief executive.

Shares in Rentokil plunged in May when the firm issued a profit warning and ousted its chairman Sir Clive Thompson.

Sir Clive was once dubbed 'Mr 20%' during his time at Rentokil for his profits growth record.

Mr McGowan, who took over as chairman from Sir Clive, promised a thorough review of all Rentokil's operations.

Then in July, chief executive James Wilde also left the firm, with Mr McGowan saying a "fresh pair of eyes" was needed.