Marshalls Regulatory News (MSLH)

9 Jan 2006 07:00

Marshalls PLC09 January 2006 Trading Statement - Twelve Months to 31 December 2005 Marshalls' revenue from continuing operations, including acquisitions, in thetwelve months to 31 December 2005 increased 9% to £359 million (2004: £328million). On a like for like basis, revenue from continuing operations was up 1%at £332 million (2004: £328 million). Acquisitions contributed £27 million. Sales to the public sector and commercial market, which represent half of Grouprevenue, were 4% ahead of 2004 and demand remains robust. Sales to the domesticsector of the market were down 1% with particular weakness in sales of productsfor the DIY market. Installer order books, from the latest survey at the end ofOctober 2005, were at a satisfactory 8.6 weeks (2004: 10.2 weeks). The Preliminary Announcement of Group results, which are expected to be in linewith market expectations, will take place on Friday 10 March 2006. Group Developments Two acquisitions were completed in the second half of the year. Paver Systems, aconcrete products business which broadens our product range in Scotland, wasacquired for £8.7 million on 2 September 2005. On 2 November 2005 the businessand assets of Stoke Hall Quarry, a natural sandstone reserve in Derbyshire, wereacquired for £3.1 million. The closure of a production unit at Mansfield which did not form part of ourunique National Manufacturing and Regional Service Centre network was completedin December 2005. Productivity gains resulting from recent capital investmenthad resulted in surplus capacity that is not required. The sale of one of our surplus properties was also completed in December 2005for proceeds of £4.4 million. The profit generated by this sale will cover theadditional costs associated with the closure of the production unit atMansfield. Graham Holden, Chief Executive, commented: "Marshalls is pleased to be announcing a resilient performance in challengingmarket conditions, reflecting the breadth of our markets, the product range andalso the considerable investment we have made in productivity improvements, andthe Marshalls brand, over recent years". Graham Holden Chief Executive Marshalls plc 01484 438900Ian Burrell Finance Director Marshalls plc 01484 438900 Jon Coles Brunswick Group LLP 0207 404 5959Sarah Lindgreen Brunswick Group LLP 0207 404 5959 This information is provided by RNS The company news service from the London Stock Exchange