AGM Statement

RNS Number : 3071I

Halma PLC

24 July 2012

 



Halma plc AGM Trading Update/Interim Management Statement 24 July 2012 Halma, the leading safety, health and environmental technology group is holding its 118th AGM later today, at which Geoff Unwin, Chairman, will make the following statement which comprises the Group's Interim Management Statement relating to the period 1 April 2012 to 24 July 2012 and covers the first quarter's trading. "Trading since the start of the year has been in line with the Board's expectations. "Revenue during the first quarter was 6% ahead of last year including 2% organic growth at constant currency.  Order intake was 105% of revenue and 8% ahead of last year. "As expected, trading conditions have varied across different geographic regions and market sectors although we continue to benefit from the diversity of our businesses.  The Group achieved satisfactory organic revenue growth at constant currency in the UK with higher growth in Asia and the USA offsetting weaker demand from Europe. "Industrial Safety is maintaining strong progress with revenue growth in all four sub-sector businesses.  Energy markets have continued to offer significant growth opportunities supported by Health and Safety requirements. "Health and Analysis is making steady progress.  Water and Health Optics are performing well whilst Fluid Technology and Photonics are starting to see an improvement in demand following a slow start to the year. "Infrastructure Sensors is performing resiliently.  All four subsectors are seeing reduced demand from Europe but good growth in the USA.  The reorganisation of our Elevator Safety business is proceeding to plan and will be complete by the end of the first half. "Since the start of the financial year, Halma has announced the completion of three acquisitions for a total initial consideration of £65m.  In April 2012, we acquired Accutome Inc., an ophthalmic products business based in Pennsylvania, USA and Sensorex Inc., a water quality sensor manufacturer, based in California, USA.  In May 2012, we acquired SunTech Medical Group Limited, a manufacturer of clinical grade blood pressure monitors, headquartered in North Carolina, USA.  All three businesses have made a very positive start within our Health and Analysis sector and are trading in line with our expectations. "There have been no material events or transactions impacting the Group's financial position, which remains strong.  We continue to increase investment in supporting organic growth and to acquire businesses which meet our strategic and financial criteria. "The half yearly results for the period ending 29 September 2012 are expected to be released on 20 November 2012."

For further information, please contact:
Halma plc Andrew Williams, Chief Executive Kevin Thompson, Finance Director	Tel: [phone]
MHP Communications Rachel Hirst/Andrew Jaques	Tel: [phone]

Notes:

1.

This Interim Management Statement has been prepared solely to provide additional information to the shareholders of Halma plc, in order to meet the requirements of the UK Listing Authority's Disclosure and Transparency Rules. It should not be relied on by any other party, for other purposes. Forward-looking statements have been made by the Directors in good faith using information available up until the date that they approved this statement. Forward-looking statements should be regarded with caution because of the inherent uncertainties in economic trends and business risks.

2.

A copy of this announcement, together with other information about Halma, may be viewed on its website:  www.halma.com

 

END

 

 

MSCBKNDBABKDBOB