• Swindon & Wiltshire Manufacturing
• Friday October 13 2023
• Author Name: Peter Davison

Avon Protection predicts a bumper second financial half

Avon Protection, the personal protection company which manufactures defence equipment for military, police, industrial and fire service personnel from its factory in Melksham, has reported strong trading in the second half of the financial year.

In an update to investors today (Friday) the company said there had been strong demand for its military helmets, offsetting the downturn in demand for gas masks.

The firm said its order book at the end of September was up by more than 10 per cent on the same month last year.

CEO Jos Sclater said: “We are now seeing more reliable financial performance as a result of our actions to strengthen the business by increasing accountability and improving operations and programme management.

“In particular, we have demonstrated our ability to deliver helmets to the DOD, which is reflected by a stronger order book. Our focus is now turning to our multi-year plan to improve margins through the transform pillar of our STAR strategy.

“I am delighted to see the Avon team rising to the challenge of realising our full potential and remain excited by the significant opportunity to expand cash-backed margins, accelerate growth and improve return on capital.”