30% leap in US sales for Casdon

US demand has contributed to stronger revenues at Blackpool toy maker and distributor Casdon.

In the six months to the end of October revenues increased 12% to £4.9m, but pre-tax profits fell by 30% mainly due to building maintenance and demolition costs, and a higher than expected toy testing and compliance bill for the US market.

The company said: “Whilst growth in the US is encouraging, we need to ensure that this is sustainable, and with a reduction in UK sales the company will continue to adopt a cautious approach.”

Sales to the US increased by 30% during the period but domestic revenues were down by 7.5%. It said this was down to more online shopping which has led to less sales of premium lines.

The directors recommend a dividend of 0.75p.