Serco hit by US squeeze
International outsourcing firm Serco said it was on track for 2012 but expects revenues in the first half to take a hit from tough conditions in America.
International outsourcing firm Serco said it was on track for 2012 but expects revenues in the first half to take a hit from tough conditions in America.
In a statement ahead of the firm's half year end, Serco said it expected strong total revenue growth in 2012, including good organic growth.
But it forecast that adjusted operating margins would be flat in the first half compared to the corresponding period in 2011.
Subscribe to MoneyWeek
Subscribe to MoneyWeek today and get your first six magazine issues absolutely FREE
Sign up to Money Morning
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
Serco noted further strong growth in AMEAA, an improving outlook in the UK, but said conditions in the US federal market remained very tough for its Americas division.
"Accordingly, for the first half of the year, we expect a small reduction in the group's organic revenue," it said.
"Acquisitions will contribute growth of approximately 6% to the group's total revenue," it added.
The firm said its financial performance would be weighted to the second half of the year when it expected a strong result.
This would come through new contract awards recently secured, the successful conclusion of a change programme, and the benefit of recent acquisitions, it said.
Sign up to Money Morning
Our team, led by award winning editors, is dedicated to delivering you the top news, analysis, and guides to help you manage your money, grow your investments and build wealth.
-
Will the Bitcoin price hit $100,000?
With Bitcoin prices trading just below $100,000, we explore whether the cryptocurrency can hit the milestone.
By Dan McEvoy Published
-
Inheritance tax receipts jump 11% even before Autumn Budget overhaul
Official figures show inheritance tax receipts are rising even before the chancellor’s changes to reliefs
By Marc Shoffman Published