Last checked at 
(Alliance News) - Vianet Group PLC on Wednesday said the good momentum experienced in 2018 has continued into the new financial year, with trading in the first two months slightly ahead of the board's expectations.
Vianet provides data gathering and contactless payment solutions to retailers, pub owners and other businesses.
"Positive results are coming from our focus on strong growth opportunities in the Smart Machines division, whilst delivering technology upgrades for customers of Smart Zones. Smart Machines' leading end-to-end product suite and established presence continues to create strong growth opportunities across the UK and Europe, with further contracts won in the past months," said Chair James Dickson in his annual general meeting statement.
"The group is in good shape to deliver strong earnings growth and to expand the future strategic options for Vianet," Dickson added.
Vianet said it is making further sales investment in Smart Machines to focus on accelerating growth in coffee device and contactless payment connectivity, where sales progress continues.
The Smart Zones division, the company said, is currently trading marginally ahead of last year, as it advances prospects both in the UK pub market and US hospitality market.
Shares in Vianet Group were trading 2.0% higher at 131.08 pence each.