Results round-up

Telecoms provider KCom Group posted an increase in interim pre-tax profit and revenue thanks to good performances across the board.

In the six months to the end of September, the London-listed group saw its pre-tax profit rise 2.54% year-on-year to £24.2m on the back of lower financing costs, although increased investment in the business drove amortisation and depreciation costs slightly higher in the period.

Revenue grew 2.83% year-on-year to £177.9m, the group said, adding revenue at its Kcom enterprise and SME-focused units advanced 4% and 2% respectively from the corresponding period in 2014.

KCom indicated it plans to continue its expansion plans and intends to invest in areas which will support profitable growth.

“Our focus on generating targeted organic revenue growth, coupled with further steps to simplify the operating structure of the business, places us in a strong position,” said group chief executive Bill Halbert.

The company lifted its interim dividend to 1.97p, 10% higher year-on-year and confirmed it will increase its total dividend for the year by 10%, maintaining the same rate of growth it reported in the last six years.

Electronic parts distributor Acal said it was on track to meet its full year expectations after posting a strong set of interim results.

In the six months to 30 September, the group said revenue rose 2% year-on-year on a like-for-like basis to £142.2m, while revenue on a constant currency exchange basis surged 30% from the corresponding period in the previous year.

Underlying profit, meanwhile, rose 72% year-on-year at constant exchange rates to £6.8m, while underlying operating profit jumped 64% when excluding currency fluctuations.

The London-listed company attributed its solid growth to a number of successful acquisitions and organic initiatives, adding it was encouraged by the outlook in the European markets.

"We are encouraged by European macro indicators although remain cautious over the international economic environment and the continuing impact of foreign exchange translation headwinds,” said group chief executive Nick Jefferies.

“Accordingly, our earnings forecast for the full year remains unchanged and in line with our expectations.”

Acal lifted its interim dividend 6% year-on-year to 2.33p.