Impressive results for construction supplier as revenues hit £386m

“STRONG demand” at building supplies business Marshalls has enabled revenues to rise to an impressive £386m.

Pre-tax profits increased 57% for the year to 31 December 2015 to £35.3m.

Marshalls is moving fast to capitalise on growth, despite uncertainty in the industry.

Investment in new product development as well as strengthening of its logistics and distribution sites will cost Marshalls £15m over the next two to three years, funded by price rises.

The business said it had been so successful this year as volume growth was driven by strong demand.

The group said that European markets remain “challenging” but that it was focusing on developing its international business in the Middle East, having opened a Dubai office there.

The Board is recommending a final dividend of 4.75p, up from 4.0p per share in 2014. which. Added to the interim dividend, a total of 7.0p per share has been recommended.

Martyn Coffey, chief executive, said:”This has been another good year for Marshalls with significant revenue and profit growth delivered in 2015.

“This has been matched by a strong cash performance resulting in the increased dividend for this year.

“Whilst there remain political and economic uncertainties, the outlook remains good.”