Scottish contractor scales back housing and speculative development work

Bill Robertson

Scottish contractor Robertson Group has reported a 16% growth in revenue driven by a focus on infrastructure work.

The group reported revenue for the year to the end of March 2012 of £269m – up 16%.

It also reported an operating profit before exceptional items of £5.6m, up from £1.3m the previous year.

Bill Roberston, chairman of the group, said the business had refocused on infrastructure work in the current challenging market.

He said: “We continue to evolve the business to meet the changes in both the public and private sectors.

“It is particularly pleasing to see that we continue to enjoy high levels of repeat business from a loyal client base whilst at same time developing new client relationships.”

The firm said it had reduced its activity in its traditional core markets of private house building and speculative property development.

Over the period, the firm’s construction arm reported growth in profit and sales and completed the £110m emergency care centre at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary. It also opened a new office in Manchester and started a mechanical and electrical contracting business.

The firm saw staff numbers grow to 1,100 over the period.