Robust performance from Camira despite cost pressures

TEXTILE manufacturer Camira said it continues to build on its strong market position, seeing rises in profit and turnover, despite facing pressure from raw materials prices.

The Mirfield-based company, which specialises in making fabrics used in office furniture and transport seating, saw group turnover rise 6% to £55m in the year to December 2012, generating group operating profit of £4.7m and pre-tax profits of £3.6m.

In its latest report filed at Companies House, the group said cost pressures are still apparent, particularly in raw materials, which are expected to remain for the foreseeable future.

However, Camira said that continued growth was generated from investment coupled with expansion in North America and some of its European markets, while the group continues to take advantage of new opportunities in Central and Eastern Europe.

Camira said Holdsworth Fabrics continued to improve its performance.
“Whilst trading conditions were strong in the first half of the year, orders weakened slightly in the third and fourth quarters,” Camira said.

The group said this weakness continued into the first quarter this year but that some markets such as North America look set for growth in 2013.

“The investment by the group in a joint venture for a new dyehouse has significantly strengthened the service, quality and capability of the Holdsworth brand.”

On the future, Camira said: “The group continues to focus on the development of the most innovative, adventurous and environmentally sensitive fabrics in the world, along with a continuing commitment to invest in new and sustainable technologies to keep it at the forefront of its markets.”