10/05/2004
Trading Statement
Dignity, Britain's largest single provider of funeral-related services, namely funeral services, cremations and pre-arranged funeral plans, has today published unaudited quarterly results for the 13 week period to 26 March 2004.
This statement forms the first report on trading since the Company's successful flotation on the Official List of the London Stock Exchange on 8 April 2004.
Group turnover for the 13 week period ended 26 March 2004 increased by 6.6% to £37.3 million (2003: £35.0 million).
Profit before interest, tax, depreciation, amortisation and exceptional items increased by 17.2% to £14.3 million (2003: £12.2 million).
In addition, the Group received £1.2 million (2003: £nil) in the quarter in respect of one off recoveries from the pre-need Trusts. These recoveries are expected to be classified as exceptional income in the Interim and Final reports for the year.
Peter Hindley, Chief Executive of Dignity plc commented:
‘This has been a very busy time for the Group and I am very pleased with these results which are in line with our expectations.'
In accordance with the terms of the securitisation carried out in April 2003, Dignity (2002) Limited (the holding company of those companies subject to the securitisation) has today issued reports to the Rating Agencies (Fitch and Standard & Poor's), the Security Trustee and the holders of notes issued in connection with the securitisation confirming compliance with the covenants established under the securitisation.
Copies of these reports are available at http://www.dignityfuneralsplc.co.uk
Enquiries:
Peter Hindley
Chief Executive
Dignity plc
Tel: +44 (0) 121 354 1557
Mike McCollum
Finance Director
Dignity plc
Tel: +44 (0) 121 354 1557
Mark Edwards/Jeremy Garcia
Buchanan Communications
Tel: +44(0) 207 466 5000