Johnson Service Share News (JSG)

Shares in laundry and textile rental group Johnson Services firmed in early dealings after it said 2009 profit doubled and it reinstated a final dividend.Adjusted pre-tax profit rose to £12.2m for the financial year ending 31 December 2009 from £6m the year before. Revenue for the year fell to £236.4m from £252.3m a year earlier.At its Textile Rental unit, new business wins exceeded the group's expectations but it experienced an increase in the level of business closures and general reductions in the levels of spend from our existing customers, the group explained.The Drycleaning Division continues to struggle after a challenging start to the year after freezing weather conditions, Johnson added. Its Facilities Management unit achieved profitability and revenue growth. Executive chairman John Talbot said, "We have continued to reduce our net debt and I feel very positive about the future prospects of our three divisions despite the harsh economic environment." The board is recommending a final dividend of 0.5p per share after no payment in 2008.