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ISG sees fit-out recovery ahead after strong first half

8 Mar 11 Fit-out contractor Interior Services Group (ISG) has reported a strong rise in revenues and profits for the six months to 31 December 2010, although its operating margins are under pressure.

Revenues were up 31% on the same period the year before, to £635m. Pre-tax profit was up nearly 73% to £4.5m, from £2.6m last time.

The UK Fit Out division saw revenues up 39% to £193m (2009: £139m) although margins deteriorated from 2.7% to 1.7% because of “competitive pressures”.

The Europe Fit Out division more than tripled its revenues to £41m (2009: £13m), driven by multinational UK clients taking ISG overseas.

Chief executive David Lawther said: "This is a strong performance, especially in the UK.  We expect to see a more complete recovery of the London fit out market as we move through 2012.  Our blue chip client base will go on providing demand outside the UK.  We are emerging from the recession in good health with strong finances, diverse revenue streams and market leading positions in commercial office fit out, food retail and retail banking.  We will continue to target growth both organically and via acquisition."

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He added: “There have been signs of recovery in some of our markets, though the trading environment continues to be challenging overall.  I am also pleased to report further progress in building on our geographic spread and service offering in our key markets. 

“The overall picture is one of revenues increasing, which is offsetting pressure from tighter margins.  Our business continues to be 80% weighted by profits towards the private sector.  The commercial office fit out market in London has shown good signs of recovery, though the overall trend is currently towards smaller projects and refurbishment.  Both our retail banking fit out and food retail markets are particularly strong with revenues in these areas significantly increased.

Against a backdrop of a highly challenging market, our construction business has held its position when compared to last year with revenue of £248m (2009: £244m) - though margins continue to be under pressure.  Operating profit for the period stands at £2.3m (2009: £3.2m) with operating margins standing at 0.9% (2009: 1.3%).”

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