• Swindon & Wiltshire Manufacturing
• Wednesday May 13 2026

Profits up at Avon Technologies as global conflicts trigger demand

Defence contractor Avon Technologies is riding a surge in demand as governments and security forces respond to a more dangerous world, with profits jumping sharply in its latest results and management saying the business is benefiting from “war-fighting readiness” spending.

The Melksham-based specialist in protective gear, masks and breathing equipment said its core markets are expanding faster than previously expected, driven by rising defence budgets, elevated threat levels and stronger demand from law enforcement.

The company reported pretax profit of $13.1 million for the year to September 30, up from $2.3 million a year earlier, while revenue rose 14 per cent to $313.9 million.

Its order book also climbed to a record $262.8 million, reflecting what the firm described as “exceptional commercial momentum” across its main businesses.

Nearly two years ago, we set bold ambitions for the business, which could only be achieved by significant change,” chief executive Jos Sclater said in the report.

“This year, in particular, required enormous tenacity and dedication from our employees. That effort is paying off,” he added.

Avon said demand for its Avon Protection respiratory products strengthened in Europe, while its US-based Team Wendy business saw increased helmet production and higher sales to law enforcement.

The company also pointed to growing interest in chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear protection, saying the war in Ukraine had sharpened militaries’ focus on “war-fighting readiness”.

Looking ahead, Avon said it was “firmly on track to meet or exceed” its financial 2026 targets, including high-single-digit revenue growth. The group said it expects operating margins to improve further as it continues to expand production and roll out new products.

Sclater said the company had launched “several exciting new products” that will support future growth, adding that Avon is now “a stronger business with more growth opportunities than ever”.

Investors appeared to like the numbers, with the shares rising sharply after the update.