Last checked at 17 Dec 2008 07:00
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Pre-close Trading Statement
Intertek Group plc ("Intertek"), the leading international provider of quality and safety services to a wide range of industries, today issues a trading update ahead of its full year results ending 31 December 2008, which will be announced on 9 March 2009.
Notwithstanding our caution during the year, the Group is expected to end 2008 with strong trading. The economic drivers that create demand for the Group's services continue to be robust across the core areas of the Group's business. As guided on 13 November, the wider economic outlook for 2009 remains unclear, however the Group expects the current momentum in trading to continue into 2009.
Commenting, Wolfhart Hauser, CEO Intertek, said:
"The strong performance of our business in the first half of the year has continued. We are now seeing a good return from investments made during the first six months of 2008. We have continued to make strategic bolt-on acquisitions, which are strengthening our portfolio and adding to growth and profitability. We are also benefiting significantly from a weaker pound, particularly relative to the US dollar. The majority of our earnings are generated overseas and are appreciating significantly when translated into sterling".
Contacts Bill Spencer / Sarah OgilvieTelephone: +44 (0) 20 7396 3400bill.spencer@intertek.com / sarah.ogilvie@intertek.com
Richard Mountain / Sophie Kernon, Financial DynamicsTelephone: +44 (0) 20 7831 3113richard.mountain@fd.com / sophie.kernon@fd.com
Notes to Editors
ABOUT INTERTEK
Intertek (LSE: ITRK) is the leading provider of quality and safety solutions serving a wide range of industries around the world. From auditing and inspection, to testing, quality assurance and certification, Intertek people are dedicated to adding value to customers' products and processes, supporting their success in the global marketplace. Intertek has the expertise, resources and global reach to support its customers through its network of more than 1,000 laboratories and offices and over 23,000 people in 110 countries around the world.
www.intertek.com
Copyright Business Wire 2008