Alexandra increases profits and payout

Alexandra Workwear, maker and supplier of work clothes, reaped the rewards of replacing low-priced business with higher-priced orders complete with service, writes Alison Eadie.

Pre-tax profits in the year to 29 January rose to pounds 4.6m from pounds 1.7m on turnover 2.6 per cent higher. The total dividend was increased to 5.6p from 3.8p.

Julian Budd, finance director, said concentrating on 24 and 48- hour delivery services had significantly improved margins. Prices had remained static. Improvements in efficiencies and downward pressure on costs helped reduce gearing to 19 per cent from 46 per cent a year before.

The company plans to keep tight control on overheads and extend market share. It opened five new shops last year and is seeking more outlets.

Mr Budd said the signs of economic recovery were fragile. He added that Alexandra Workwear could generate profits and cash without recovery.