CLL.L Share News (CLL)

Market research and consulting group Cello said it expects full year pre-tax profit to be ahead of expectations after a strong second half."Performance has been particularly strong in the pharmaceutical and health related client sectors," the group explained.The group's market research and consulting business experienced robust like-for-like revenue growth.Operating profits are expected to have risen by more than 20% on a like-for-like annual basis, boosted by strong demand from Cello's blue-chip client base, and improving operating margins."Revenue momentum experienced in the research and consulting business in the last quarter of 2010 means that the group is carrying forward a healthy pipeline of activity into the first quarter of 2011," Cello said. At this early stage of the year, the group is currently trading in line with management's expectations. The board remains optimistic for the prospects in 2011, it added.Net debt will be better than expected at less than £9m.