AGA.L Share News (AGA)

Shares in upmarket cooker maker AGA Rangemaster rose 15% Friday as the group increased sales of AGA and Rangemaster cookers in November and December. Revenues for the year ended 31 December were up 5% on the £245m reported in 2009, while net cash grew £5m to £33m. Exports of Rangemaster cookers grew to 3 percentage points to 24%, with France now being its largest export market. "We now have a solid financial and operational base to build on, supported by an excellent range of new products coming down the track. Despite the continued uncertain markets, the Group feels well positioned as we move into 2011," said chief executive William McGrath.Smiths News, the newspaper and magazine wholesaler, revenues decreased by 5.5% during the 19 weeks to 8 January, but it remains on track to deliver growth in pre-tax profits for the full year. "Whilst the international market continues to grow year on year, the UK retail and library markets have been more difficult," the statement said. "Newspaper revenues continue to decline at a slower rate than magazines where the market remains weaker."Jewellery maker Abbeycrest said that the trading performance at its wedding ring specialist Brown & Newirth has been hit during September to January as a result of rising precious metal costs and competitive market conditions. However, the group said that the latest monthly key performance indicators are now back in line, and "trading performance is now well placed to return to previous levels."