BSS Group Plc said on Wednesday that its pre-tax profit for the year ended 31 March 2008 had risen 23.3 per cent to £58.3 million, with revenue up 27.4 per cent to £1,289.0 million.

The plumbing and heating company said that its total dividend was up 20.0 per cent to 7.43 pence per share and that earnings per share had increased 22.9 per cent to 33.3 pence per share.

BSS said that it had opened up 37 new branches during the year, taking its total number of branches to over 370 across the UK and Ireland. The company said that it had experienced an increased rate of growth in the second half.

On the beginning of the new financial year, BSS said that the first seven weeks had started well and that the outlook for the company was positive.

Gavin Slark, group chief executive, said, These record results reflect the considerable progress made by the Group. We have continued to grow revenue, profitability and market share, with strong cash performance.

The repair and maintenance market remains resilient and the Group has positioned itself to ensure it is well placed to service growth streams within that market. Our success in gaining market share is underpinned by keeping close to our customers and anticipating market needs. We continue to see growth opportunities.

Slark continued, The outlook remains positive despite a more uncertain economic environment.

United kingdom