Bush fails to dent Datong’s display

SECURITY equipment manufacturer Datong today said it expected profits to be in line with market expectations as it revealed growth in the UK and Europe.

However, the Leeds-based group, which makes security equipment used to track drug dealers and terrorist suspects, said that a delay by US President George Bush to sign off the the country's military budget had resulted in the postponement of some business in the US.

But Datong said this had been offset by a strong performance in its home market and others overseas.

In a pre-close trading update ahead of its annual results for the year ended March 31, Datong said revenues are expected to be £10.7m for the full year, 12% up on the previous year.

It said continued investment in its product portfolio and routes to market had brought “significant growth” in its UK and European markets.

The company said it expected its positive performance to continue into the new financial year thanks to ongoing investments and a recent significant product launch.

Datong's annual results are expected to be announced on June 10.