27 March 2018 – final results

Final results for 2017 have been released.  Revenue was up 25% to £57.2m (2016: £45.7m), including professional fees 28% higher at £48.0m (2016: £37.6m).  Adjusted operating profit was up 44% at £4.6m (2016: £3.2m) and the adjusted operating margin increased to 8% (2016: 7%).  Adjusted basic earnings per share were 10.0p (2016: 9.2p).  Basic earnings per share jumped to 11.5p (2016: 7.6p).  Net debt was reduced to £5.9m (2016: £10.2m) and the full year dividend was 2.16p per share (2016: 1.96p).  The year-end order book was 41% higher at £91.3m (2016: £64.6m), leaving the company well positioned.  BUY.