Laird Security Systems had another successful year in 2003. Turnover increased 5% to £205.3m, (2002: £195.9m) while operating profits for the year, before exceptional items, grew 10% to £24.8m in 2003 (£22.6m ).
'In the UK, growth continued in our multi-point lock, door hinge and door handle programmes, while in the US further growth was seen in the sales of Sash Controls' door products, with profitability being enhanced by the transfer of product manufacturing to China', the company explains.

Laird Security Systems has also continued to demonstrate overall sales and profits growth in its traditional window hardware, seals and uPVC profiles businesses. As part of a strategy of identifying and exploiting higher growth sectors within our overall market, Laird acquired Intron Ltd, a UK composite door manufacturer, in November 2003. 'Our long-standing relationship with the local authority market, together with specifically developed hardware solutions, has positioned us to be a leading player in this market'.

New routes to market were also developed in 2003 and sales to the DIY market in the UK continued to grow. Cellular uPVC roofline products were launched in the UK through major DIY outlets, with an installation programme to be rolled out in 2004. Following the success of Laird Security Systems' Ventrolla window renovation franchise business in recent years, a pilot lock installation and maintenance operation was launched in 2003. The intention is to develop a national UK franchise of security hardware installers.

Source

Glass Age