Keller Group plc (“Keller” or “the Group”), the international ground engineering specialist, is pleased to announce its preliminary results for the year ended 31 December 2004.
Highlights include:
- Turnover of £595.9m (2003: £567.5m) up 11% on a constant currency basis, representing strong organic growth across our international markets
- Profit before tax* up 3% to £29.6m (2003: £28.7m), despite adverse currency fluctuations of £2.3m
- Strong US performance on the back of restored Suncoast margins
- Improved UK performance following Makers recovery
- Earnings per share* increased to 25.1p (2003: 24.1p)
- Total dividend per share increased by 5% to 10.9p (2003: 10.4p)
- Record order book, boosted by recent large US contract wins
* before amortisation of intangibles and 2003 exceptional items, together totalling £3.0m (2003: £13.9m)
Justin Atkinson, Keller Chief Executive said:
“I am pleased to report that in 2004 we met our immediate objectives of consolidating and strengthening our existing businesses, returning Makers to profitability and improving Sun coast’s margins. Now our focus is on continuing the Group’s long-term track record of growth through a combination of organic growth and targeted acquisitions.”
“Looking ahead, the good order intake in the final quarter of 2004 has continued into 2005. Our current order book represents over four months’ sales, giving us a sound base from which to progress.”
A presentation for analysts will be held at 9.15 for 9.30am at The Theatre & Gallery, London Stock Exchange, 10 Paternoster Square, London, EC4M 7LS
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