5th Jul 2005 07:00
William Hill PLC05 July 2005 Tuesday, 5 July 2005 WILLIAM HILL PLC PRE CLOSE PERIOD TRADING STATEMENT In its circular to shareholders dated 31 May 2005, William Hill (the 'Group')reported that in the 19 weeks ended 10 May 2005, gross win had been level withthe corresponding period and operating expenses had increased 7.6% compared tothe corresponding period. In recent weeks, the Group has enjoyed improved sporting results whilstcontinuing to exercise tight control over costs. Consequently, in the 26 weeks ended 28 June 2005, the Group (excluding theresults of Stanley Retail Betting that was only acquired on 19 June 2005) hasseen gross win remain level with the corresponding period whilst the rate ofincrease in operating expenses (pre-exceptional costs) has fallen to 4.4%. Thisperformance has been achieved against a comparative period that benefited frommore favourable sporting results and the Euro 2004 football championship. The outcome for the full year will be influenced by the degree to which sportingresults continue to normalise in the coming months. Results for the 26 week period ended 28 June 2005 will be announced on 5September 2005. Enquiries: David Harding, Chief Executive Tel: 0208 918 3910 Tom Singer, Chief Operating Officer Tel: 0208 918 3910 James Bradley/William Cullum Tel: 0207 404 5959 This information is provided by RNS The company news service from the London Stock ExchangeRelated Shares:
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