He added that the group's immediate priority was to secure financial stability to allow the businesses to maximise potential. It is looking to interim CEO John Talbot to lead the group through “these challenging times”
In the rental division, Johnson Apparelmaster, a market leader in the workwear sector, continues to perform well.
The restructuring of Stalbridge Linen has not yet been completed, but its loss levels were lower in the second half than the first and the business will work more closely with Apparelmaster as losses continue to reduce.
The corporatewear division's management and supply business continues to trade successfully. However, the division's the workwear supply business is being reorganised following the loss of an important external contract.
Retail drycleaning includes both Johnson Cleaners and Jeeves of Belgravia. A decline in retail spending and the smoking ban have affected sales volume. Management hopes to counter this with tight cost control, promotional activity and a broader range of services. It continues to move stores to convenient locations and five supermarket-based shops will open in the next quarter.
Facilities management division had a strong second half. It is following new business opportunities and has taken on two small contracts already in 2008.
