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(Alliance News) - Keller Group PLC on Tuesday reported improved interim earnings and an increased dividend in a "record" first half performance for the firm.
In the six months ended June 26, the geotechnical contractor posted pretax profit of GBP32.7 million, up 12% from GBP29.2 million the previous year.
Revenue climbed 36% to GBP1.34 billion from GBP984.1 million. Keller said this reflected growth in all three of its divisions as trading recovered from the impact of Covid-19.
Keller lifted its dividend by 4.8% to 13.2 pence from 12.6p. The firm added that it will be reviewing a further increase of its final dividend for the year as part of its return to a progressive dividend policy.
At the end of June, its order book stood at GBP1.60 billion, 31% higher against the same time the previous year. Chief Executive Michael Speakman said this provided the firm with confidence for the second half and for delivering on its full-year expectations.
The company's expectations for the group's full-year performance remain unchanged. Keller said it expects its "usual" increase in trading momentum and moderate second-half weighting.
Shares in Keller were down 2.1% at 761.00 pence on Tuesday morning in London.
By Heather Rydings; heatherrydings@alliancenews.com
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