18th May 2016 07:03
LONDON (Alliance News) - SSP Group PLC on Wednesday reported growth in profit in the first half of its financial year as growth in air passenger travel and new openings helped to boost revenue.
SSP, which operates food and beverage outlets in travel locations, said its pretax profit in the six months ended March 31 grew to GBP22.2 million from GBP13.8 million in the first half of the prior year, as revenue rose to GBP896.7 million from GBP859.2 million.
SSP said like-for-like sales were up by 3.3% in the half, driven by growth in air passenger travel and retailing initiatives, which along with new contract openings and operational improvements helped to boost overall results.
SSP will pay an interim dividend of 2.5 pence, which is up 19% on the prior year.
"Looking forward, the second half has started in line with our expectations. Whilst a degree of uncertainty always exists around passenger numbers in the short term, we are well placed to benefit from the structural growth opportunities in our markets and to create further shareholder value," Chief Executive Kate Swann said in a statement.
By Karolina Kaminska; [email protected] @KarolinaAllNews
Copyright 2016 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved.
Related Shares:
SSP Group