Norish plc reported preliminary consolidated earnings results for the year ended December 31, 2017. For the year, the company's revenue was £42,183,000 compared to £32,098,000 a year ago. Operating profit from continuing operations was £1,710,000 compared to £872,000 a year ago. Profit on continuing activities before taxation was £1,507,000 compared to £633,000 a year ago. Profit for the financial year from continuing operations was £1,066,000 compared to £441,000 a year ago. Profit for the financial year was £993,000 compared to £280,000 a year ago. Profit attributable to owners of the parent was £993,000 compared to £291,000 a year ago. Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations were 3.6 pence per basic and diluted share compared to 1.5 pence per basic and diluted share a year ago. Net cash from operating activities was £2,527,000 compared to £277,000 a year ago. Purchase of property, plant and equipment was £1,816,000 compared to £1,375,000 a year ago. Net debt at December 31, 2017 was £5.4 million compared to £5.2 million at 31 December 2016.

The company anticipates another strong year of profit growth in 2018, underpinned by the initiation of a continuous improvement programme across the business. The company expects the group's cash conversion metrics to continue to improve through 2018, driven by an improved operating performance, lower tax rate and reduced capital expenditures.