Van Elle reports 'encouraging' first quarter trading

Geotechnical engineering contractor Van Elle updated the market on its trading ahead of its annual general meeting on Tuesday, confirming that trading in the first quarter was “encouraging”.

The AIM-traded firm said there had been “good levels” of activity across the group, particularly within the general piling division, as well as in the recently-established Scotland operation.

“Market and operating conditions in the group's rail business remain more challenging, but the board continues to see this as an area of opportunity for Van Elle over the medium term,” the board’s statement read.

“The board will continue to monitor conditions in its markets closely and, whilst acknowledging the normal seasonality of the business, remains confident in its expectations for the current financial year as well as the long-term potential of the group.”

Van Elle said it had also “continued to strengthen” the senior management team, with the appointment of Danielle Cafferkey to the role of general counsel and company secretary.