DVD sales of the most recent series of Love/Hate have been credited with helping to increase pre-tax profits for RTÉ’s commercial firm last year.
The 208% increase to €4million was outlined in the accounts filed by RTÉ Commercial Enterprises Ltd.
The company said: “While average sales for merchandising were down compared to 2011, the sales of Love/Hate Series 3 and the box set exceeded expectations and performed very strongly in a declining market”.
Profits from these sales will contribute to funding the production of each €600,000 episode.
RTÉ have not specified sales figures of Love/Hate Series 3 DVDs or the revenue generated, "as this could prove prejudicial to its ability to operate within commercial markets."
The accounts also show that RTÉ’s revenue last year decreased slightly from €21.72m to €21.7m.
Series 4 of Love/Hate returns to RTÉ this Sunday (October 6).
