Clipper Logistics experienced a buoyant first half boosted by new contract wins and organic growth in its e-fulfilment operation.

Its interim results for the six months to 31 October 2018 show group revenue increased 14.1% to £227.9m (2017: £199.7m); pre-tax profit was 16.9% up at £9.3m (2017: £7.9m).

New business secured during the period includes an e-fulfilment operation for online fashion retailer Pretty Little Thing in Sheffield, which launched in July, and contracts with both Halfords and Sports Direct.

Clipper also reported continued organic growth with longstanding e-fulfilment customers, including Asda, ASOS and Wilko, as well as growth on recent contract wins including Browns and Silkfred.

In addition, it has initiated a number of automation projects across its network to improve efficiency and productivity.

It has also introduced new LNG trucks and “innovative trailer designs” to boost carrying capacity, lower carbon emissions and reduce trunking costs by 20%.

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Clipper said earnings momentum continues to build as it moves into the second half of its financial year.

Record volumes were delivered across Black Friday and Cyber Monday weekend for key customers, while further shared use activity is predicted in its Clicklink operation (a click and collect joint venture with John Lewis Partnership).

Its European e-fulfilment and returns management operations also continue to grow strongly.

Steve Parkin, executive chairman of Clipper Logistics, said: "The group continues to be exceptionally well-placed to benefit from the continuing migration to online retailing and the increasing propensity for consumers to choose click-and-collect services when placing orders online.

“We have a strong new business pipeline and look forward to continuing to update shareholders as we convert these opportunities."

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