Molins hints at acquisition in reporting increased sales and profits for 2013

Molins’ sales during the year to the end of December, at £105.2 million, were up by 13.2 percent on those of 2012, £93.0 million.

Its underlying profit before tax was up by 10.2 percent to £5.4 million, and its underlying earnings per share were increased by 9.6 percent to 23.9 p.

Tobacco Machinery sales were increased by 11 percent to £34.4 million, and the division’s operating profit was up 31.8 percent £2.9 million.

Sales within the group’s scientific services division, which comprises Arista Laboratories and Cerulean, increased by 14.7 percent to £26.5 million, but operating profit, before non-underlying items, was down slightly from £1.2 million to £1.1 million.

Packaging machinery sales increased by 14.2 percent to £44.3 million, while operating profit, before non-underlying items, was unchanged at £1.5 million.

“I am pleased to report a strong performance for the group over the year, with sales growth achieved across all three of our divisions, leading to an increase in profits,” said Chief Executive Dick Hunter.

“Our ability to provide products and services that meet the specific needs of our customers, across a range of markets, has helped to consolidate Molins’ established position.

“We remain mindful of the uncertain economic and regulatory environment, but are confident the group will continue to demonstrate progress on its various growth initiatives, and through acquisition.”