Abstracts » Business, international

Cruising a careful course

Article Abstract:

UK shipbuilding and engineering firm Vosper Thornycroft attributes it success largely to its longstanding focus on exports. Exports made up 80.4% of the firm's UK turnover in 1994, which is especially important now that orders from the Royal Navy have plummeted. In spite of the current strength of Vosper Thornycroft's shipbuilding business, the firm recognises the wisdom of diversifying in order to counter the 'lumpy' nature of ship orders. In the medium-term, it aims to build new businesses so that their combined sales account for one third of group turnover.

Company Profile, Shipbuilding industry, Vosper Thornycroft Holdings PLC

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B Elliot

Article Abstract:

B Elliott is a UK engineering firm which has grown through acquisitions, joint ventures and alliances. Nine such deals have been carried out since April 1994. The company's pre-tax profit was up by 55% for 1st half FY 1994-1995. B Elliot has three main divisions, process technology, electrical and electronic systems, and a specialist engineering division. Staff who are affected by deals are given information on what is happening in a straightforward way.

Engineering Services, Other Electrical Equipment and Component Manufacturing, Electronics, Electronic Components and Accessories, B. Elliott PLC

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Still rolling along

Article Abstract:

Wagon Industrial Holdings, which is involved in retail systems, storage products, automotive components and engineering, made nine separate purchases worth a total of 24 million pounds sterling in 1994. However, it is not acquisition-driven, according to chief executive John Hudson. It continues to diversify within its divisions, and has now gone a long way from its original rail freight transport operations.

Automobile equipment and supplies industry, Automotive parts industry, Hudson, John, Walker, Jeff, Wagon Industrial Holdings PLC

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