James Halstead lays down record set of results

Commercial flooring company James Halstead reported record turnover and profits and a record dividend in its preliminary results for the year ended 30 June on Wednesday, with revenue rising 3.6% to £249.5m.

The AIM-traded firm said its profit before tax was 0.2% higher at £46.7m, while its earnings per ordinary share were 17.7p - up 0.6%.

Its board proposed a final dividend per ordinary share of 9.65p, a 4.3% improvement on last year.

Cash stood at £50.7m at year-end, down from £52.5 million, with the board reporting nil gearing.

“From the forensic laboratory of the Metropolitan Police in Buenos Aires to the new Schengen area of Athens Airport we continue to cover the world and again report record turnover, profit and dividend,” said chief executive Mark Halstead.

“With the investment in product, processes and structures, I believe we have undertaken significant groundwork in the year to put us in good stead for continued progress.”