James Fisher FY pretax pre-ex up 21 pct, says shipping markets remain strong

News was prepared under the information support of Online Daily Newspaper on Hellenic and international Shipping "Hellenic Shipping News".

19 Mar 2008

James Fisher, the UK-based marine services provider, reported a 21 pct increase in pretax profits before exceptionals of 19.2 mln stg for the year to end-December, reflecting strength in shipping, offshore and port services.Revenues increased 54 pct to 182.0 mln stg and operating profits were up 35 pct at 21.5 mln stg, the company said.It announced a 15 pct increase in the final dividend of 7.52 pence a share, resulting in a total payout for the year of 11.41 pence.The company said trading so far in 2008 had met management expectations, and its main markets remain strong. It said it is well-placed to continue to produce good growth and value for shareholders.