The key highlight of the result was a "material reduction" in net debt levels.
Ebos reported an operating profit of $225million for the year ended June, up 14.6% on the $196.7million reported in the previous corresponding period.
The reported profit rose nearly 20% to $127million from $105.9million.
Revenue rose 17% to $7.1billion from $6.07billion.
The dividend increased to 58.5c per share, 24.5% higher than the pcp’s 47cps and higher also than the Forsyth Barr forecast of 55cps.
Ms Howe said Ebos shares had risen 69% in the past 12 months, more than twice the gain of the NZX50 Index as the medical consumables and pet products group grew enough cash to pay dividends, repay debt and continue making acquisitions.
The latest deal being flagged was merging its Australian Chemmart pharmacy chain with rival Terry White Group, taking a half stake in the enlarged business and potentially listing in the future.
Healthcare earnings were up 15% to $195million, marginally below expectations, Ms Howe said.
There was strong revenue growth but a modest fall in margins due to the impact of hepatitis C related sales because funding for wholesalers was capped for high-value drugs.
In the animal care division, earnings were up 14% to $42million. Strong growth in animal care was underpinned by 10% revenue growth.
Ebos reported cash conversion days of 13, a large reduction on 22 in the pcp.
"This is a key metric of interest and an area where Ebos has continued to deliver modest improvements over time. The 2016 financial year is a step change and particularly impressive."
The cash conversion cycle (CCC) was one of several measures of management effectiveness.
It measured how fast a company could convert cash on hand into even more cash on hand.
The Ebos board had approved a new distribution facility for Brisbane, expected to be completed by 2018 at a cost of more than $55million for land and buildings.
Forsyth Barr had expected the facility although the timing was one year ahead of modelling, Ms Howe said.
Ebos provided little outlook commentary, with a performance update expected at the annual meeting on October 19.
