The pre-close statement at the end of June showed that the Textile Rental division has performed strongly in the first half and this should continue throughout the year despite cost pressures.
Drycleaning operating profit is expected to be slightly ahead of the same period in 2010. Total like-for-like sales should be down by around 1% .The group introduced additional laundry services to almost half its outlets in May and June and these combined with continued cost control should help to improve results in the second half.
The facilities management division’s revenue and operating profit continue to benefit from PFI contracts acquired in mid-2010.
The group expects that by the end of June it will have reduced its net debt significantly compared with £59.5million at December 2010. The group received a tax repayment of £5.8 million plus interest in February 2011, subject to agreement with HMRC.
JSG expects to announce full half-year results during September.
