Stafford-based electronics and information systems dealer Instem Plc kept its word and managed to maintain pre-tax profits at just over UKP1m mark in the year to December 27, on revenues which grew organically by 42% to just under UKP16m. Chairman David Gare recognises three trends relating to the business it is in that have emerged as the UK recession drags on. First, he says, investment is moving away from manufacturing processes towards infrastructure development, safety, quality and environmental issues. Secondly, relationships between customers and suppliers are changing, and strategic partnerships being created. And, thirdly, commercial pressures are causing customers to demand an increasing range of services and outsourcing facilities. Gare says his board has taken these factors into account and proposes that the company is geared for another year of hardship. He remains cheerful, however, saying that Instem’s cash situation has improved by UKP300,000, fuelling confidence that further growth can be expected and achieved during the current financial year.
