ANS reports sharp sales rise

MANCHESTER-based IT specialist ANS Group has reported a rise in half-year sales and earnings.

Plus-listed ANS, which provides telecoms, data storage and IT consultancy services to business and the public sector, said pre-tax profit increased by 38% to £680,000 on turnover of £8.9m, up 63%.

Despite an 18% increase in overheads to £1.6m the group doubled its cash reserves to £2.4m.

Chairman and founder Scott Fletcher said it had moved into the second half with a healthy order book which he expected to “flow through to the bottom line” despite experiencing pressure on margins and slower decision-making from NHS and local government customers.

Last month ANS spent £4.85m on data management and storage company, Alpha Business Computers. It said the operations will be merged over the next 12 months to create an enlarged group with  sales of £35m and around 100 staff.

Mr Fletcher added: “Business remains buoyant and we have seen a quickening of the decision-making process in the commercial sector, as the economy begins to show a gradual improvement in trading conditions.

“I have every confidence that ANS Group will continue to show controlled growth, with good cash
management, and costs well managed to provide a platform for the future growth.”