Order pipeline strong at Avon Protection

Avon Protection, the Melksham-based manufacturer of gas masks, helmets and body armour for the military and emergency services, says its sales pipeline is strong going into 2023.

In financial results published today (Friday) the firm said sales the three months ended December 31 were at similar levels year-on-year, with overall revenue up six per cent, driven by a previously expected increase in armour product sales.

The company said it has a strong order pipeline and further growth in demand is expected for its head-protection range.

Work to ramp up production on the Next-Generation IHPS helmet is underway ahead of first deliveries in the second half, with testing progressing well and initial revenue expected in the first half of 2024, the company said.

Body armour pressing and assembly is progressing as planned, though costs per unit remain high.

Bruce Thompson, non-executive chairman, said: “Jos Sclater joined Avon Protection as our new Chief Executive Officer at the start of this month and we welcome him to the Group.

“We look forward to making further progress on our key operational and strategic initiatives as we enter a new chapter of delivery, improvement and growth under his leadership.”