Annual profit surge at Tristel

Cambridge based contamination and infection control products maker Tristel ramped up profit for the year ended June 30th 2012 and announced the resignation of Chairman Francisco Soler after 19 years at the helm.

The group reported adjusted pre-tax profit of £0.75m for the period, up 48% from the same time a year earlier. Turnover for the year rose 18% to £10.94m.

International sales jumped to £2.1m from £1m while turnover at its human healthcare division surged 26% after strong demand for instrument and surfaces products.

The group, whose Tristel Wipes System has become the most widely used disinfection method in ENT, Cardiology, IVF and Ultrasound departments in the UK, said gross margin improved to 68% from 64%. Basic earnings per share rose 39% to 1.77p.

Chief Executive Paul Swinney said: "The year was one of transition in which we completed the investment in our manufacturing capability which commenced in 2010. We now have three well-branded product ranges, directly addressing three distinct markets. We look forward to turnover growth and the restoration of profitability to levels achieved prior to our expansion programme."

Gross cash increased to £0.71m from £0.44m. A dividend of 0.62p per share has been offered for the full year, up 12% from the year before.

Tristel said it has appointed Christopher Samler as it new Chairman.

CJ