Styles & Wood reports increase in orders

Fit out firm Styles & Wood said trading conditions in the first four months of the year were better than those experienced 12 months ago, although still challenging.

In an interim management statement on trading covering the period from 1 January to 17 May 2011, the group said: "The order book continues to improve and at 17 May was more than 10% ahead of twelve months ago with strong order intake in retail banking and support services. Workloads in our retail division are at similar levels to 2010, with major projects currently being undertaken for Harrods and Selfridges.

"Performance in our banking sector remains very good with several commendations received from major customers.

"The Group continues to have a strong balance sheet and a sustained focus on cost control and cash management. In line with our strategy we continue to focus on profitable projects rather than market share."

Styles & Wood said revenues in the six months to 30 June 2011 are expected to be ahead of prior year, and to deliver an improved outcome compared to 2010.

The provider of property support services has offices in Altrincham, London and Nottingham.